About The Song
Released at the height of Beatlemania, Beatles for Sale offered a glimpse into the band’s weariness under the constant pressure of touring and recording. While the album still boasted some undeniable pop gems, a handful of songs, including “What You’re Doing”, hinted at a growing introspection within the songwriting partnership of John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
“What You’re Doing”, credited to the Lennon-McCartney duo, is primarily thought to be the work of Paul McCartney. Written shortly after the band’s grueling 1964 world tour, the song departs from the lighthearted fare that dominated their earlier releases. Here, we find a narrator grappling with loneliness and a sense of betrayal, emotions likely fueled by the relentless demands of their newfound fame.
The song opens with a simple, yet effective, lyrical hook: “Look what you’re doing, I’m feeling blue and lonely.” This line immediately sets the melancholic tone for the song, a stark contrast to the carefree anthems that had propelled them to superstardom. The narrator feels neglected and emotionally isolated, a sentiment that might resonate with older listeners who’ve experienced the strains of demanding careers or long-distance relationships.
“What You’re Doing” may not be the most well-known Beatles track, but it serves as a valuable window into their artistic evolution. It’s a song that showcases a vulnerability and emotional depth that would become a hallmark of their later work. So, put on your favorite records, settle into a comfortable chair, and let “What You’re Doing” transport you back to a time when The Beatles were more than just mop-haired heartthrobs, but a band beginning to explore the complexities of love, loss, and the price of fame.