The Beatles: 'I’ll Follow the Sun' - The Story Behind Paul McCartney’s Early Ballad

Whether you love the Beatles or are just delving into their vast discography, you may have wondered, 'Who wrote the song 'I’ll Follow the Sun'?' This article delves into the rich background and production details of this early Beatles track, focusing on Paul McCartney’s remarkable talent in crafting beautiful ballads during the band's early days.

Understanding the Beatles' Songwriting Dynamics

The question of who wrote songs for the Beatles is a common one. However, a crucial fact to understand is that most Beatles songs were written by the band members themselves, with the notable exceptions of cover versions of classic rock and roll and rhythm and blues tunes. Contrary to some popular misconceptions, the Beatles did not have songwriters writing music specifically for them. This was true even for songs like 'I’ll Follow the Sun,' which was penned by Paul McCartney.

Indeed, while it is often credited as a Lennon/McCartney composition, the truth is that Paul McCartney wrote 'I’ll Follow the Sun.' This song, which graces the 1964 album Beatles for Sale, was a standout during a period where the band began to explore more diverse musical styles, including ballads and intricate arrangements.

The Creation of 'I’ll Follow the Sun'

I’ll Follow the Sun is a song that showcases Paul McCartney’s early talent for composing ballads. According to Pete Best, one of the original Beatles drummers, McCartney would play this song on the piano while they were touring in Germany. However, the track was never included in their live setlists due to its rock and roll insufficiency. This is an interesting insight into the creative process and the band's decision-making.

Beatles for Sale, released in 1964, was the fourth album for the band with EMI Parlophone. It was produced in a rush for the Christmas market of that year, and while some critics disparage this album, personal preference often dictates opinions. McCartney and the band seem to have appreciated the album for its variety, which included songs like 'I’ll Follow the Sun.'

McCartney’s Early Musical Brilliance

Paul McCartney’s ability to craft heartfelt ballads was evident even before the Beatles rose to fame. He wrote 'I’ll Follow the Sun' in 1959, when he was a teenager. Despite the band’s initial reluctance to include this track on their first albums, it eventually found a home on Beatles for Sale. What’s fascinating is how the song’s production aligns with McCartney’s gift for creating emotionally rich music from a very young age.

The song's ballad-like nature was a departure from the band's typical "driving beat" songs, which many fans and critics have come to love. However, 'I’ll Follow the Sun' was a testament to McCartney’s evolving songwriting abilities and his willingness to push the boundaries of the band’s musical style. This early ballad hints at the broad range of musical genres that the Beatles would explore in the coming years.

Conclusion

So, 'I’ll Follow the Sun' was one of Paul McCartney’s early compositions, written when he was a teenager, and it was perfectly placed on their 1964 album Beatles for Sale. Its story is a delightful reminder of how the Beatles experimented with different genres and songwriting styles, often stemming from the brilliant minds of Paul McCartney and the band's other members.

For fans of the Beatles and those curious about the songwriting history of popular music, exploring the background of 'I’ll Follow the Sun' provides a unique and insightful glimpse into the creative process of one of the most influential bands in music history.