About the song
Background
- The “Get Back” Sessions: The song emerged during a tumultuous period when the Beatles were filming rehearsals for a planned live performance/TV special (a project later reworked into the documentary “Let It Be”). Tensions were high within the band, marked by George Harrison’s temporary departure and changing dynamics.
- Satirical Origins: The early working versions of “Get Back” were satirical and very different from the final release. Paul McCartney’s lyrics took a critical look at anti-immigrant sentiment in Britain at the time. Some improvised lyrics mockingly addressed those who were against immigration from Commonwealth countries.
- Lyrical Evolution: As the song developed, the controversial lyrics were dropped. McCartney later explained the intent was satirical, but ultimately the band focused on a more universal message
Lyrics
The final version of “Get Back” uses seemingly nonsensical placeholder lyrics. It tells a simple story:
- Jojo: A man from Tucson, Arizona, leaves home.
- Loretta Martin: Jojo encounters a woman (possibly in reference to a drag queen) who thinks she’s a man.
- The Return: Jojo ultimately desires to “get back” to where he came from – his initial starting point.
Themes
Several interpretations can be drawn from “Get Back”:
- Return to Roots: Some see a symbolic yearning to return to simpler times and their musical origins. This interpretation resonates with the tensions the Beatles were facing during the “Get Back” sessions.
- Uncertainty & Aimlessness: The placeholder lyrics can be viewed as expressing a feeling of being lost or unfulfilled, without a clear destination.
- Ambiguity as Strength: The simple yet vague lyrics allow the listener to project their own meanings and experiences onto the song.
Other Interesting Facts
- Yoko Ono: Some argue the song reflects tension caused by Yoko Ono’s presence during recording. McCartney denies this.
- Billy Preston’s Impact: The addition of keyboard player Billy Preston during the sessions had a positive effect on the band’s dynamic, evident in the energetic feel of the final version.
- Rooftop Concert: The song famously culminated in the Beatles’ iconic impromptu rooftop performance, their last ever public performance as a band.
Video
Lyrics
Jojo was a man who thought he was a lonerBut he knew it couldn’t lastJojo left his home in Tucson, ArizonaFor some California grass
Get back, get backGet back to where you once belongedGet back, get backGet back to where you once belongedGet back Jojo
Go home
Get back, get backBack to where you once belongedGet back, get backBack to where you once belonged, yeahOh, get back, Jo
Sweet Loretta Martin thought she was a womanBut she was another manAll the girls around her say she’s got it comingBut she gets it while she can
Oh, get back, get backGet back to where you once belongedGet back, get backGet back to where you once belongedGet back Loretta, woo, woo
Go home
Oh, get back, yeah, get backGet back to where you once belongedYeah, get back, get backGet back to where you once belonged
OohOoh, oohGet back, LorettaYour mommy’s waitin’ for youWearin’ her high-heel shoesAnd a low-neck sweaterGet back home, Loretta
Get back, get backGet back to where you once belongedOh, get back, get backGet back, oh yeah