“Blackbird” is a song by the legendary British rock band The Beatles. It was written by Paul McCartney and originally released on their 1968 album titled “The Beatles” (commonly known as the “White Album”).
The song features McCartney’s acoustic guitar and vocals and is known for its simple, yet beautiful melody and lyrics.
Piano Tutorial Video
Music Information & History
Song Information:
- Songwriters: “Blackbird” was primarily written by Paul McCartney, although it is credited to the songwriting partnership of Lennon-McCartney, which was customary for Beatles compositions.
- Album: The song was released on The Beatles’ 1968 self-titled album, commonly referred to as the “White Album” because of its minimalist white cover.
- Genre: “Blackbird” is often categorized as a folk-rock song. It features McCartney’s acoustic guitar and vocals, creating a stripped-down, intimate sound.
- Lyrics: The lyrics of “Blackbird” are symbolic and were inspired by the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1960s. The blackbird in the song represents the struggle for freedom and equality.
- Recording: The song was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London. The recording process was relatively simple, with McCartney playing an acoustic guitar and singing live.
History:
- Inspiration: McCartney was inspired to write “Blackbird” by the racial tensions and civil rights protests in the United States during the 1960s. He wanted to convey a message of hope and empowerment through the song.
- Guitar Technique: The song is known for its intricate fingerpicking and tapping guitar technique, which McCartney used to create a unique and memorable melody. This technique is part of what makes “Blackbird” so distinctive.
- Sound Effect: At the beginning of the song, you can hear the sound of a blackbird singing. This effect was created by McCartney and Beatles producer George Martin, who spliced together recordings of blackbird songs to create the effect.
- Live Performances: “Blackbird” became a staple of Paul McCartney’s live performances both as a member of The Beatles and throughout his solo career. It is often met with enthusiastic applause from audiences.
- Covers: Over the years, “Blackbird” has been covered by numerous artists from various musical genres. Its universal message and timeless melody have made it a popular choice for musicians.
- Cultural Impact: The song’s message of hope and its simplicity have contributed to its enduring popularity. It has been used in films, television shows, and documentaries, and it remains a powerful anthem for social justice and equality.
Music Video
Text Version
[Intro]
G Am7 G/B
G
[Verse 1]
G Am7 G/B G
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
C C#dim Dadd11 D#dim Em
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
Dadd11 C#dim C Cm
All your life
G/B A7 C/D
You were only waiting for this moment
to arise
G C G/B A7 C/D G
[Verse 2]
G Am7 G/B G
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
C C#dim Dadd11 D#dim Em
Take these sunken eyes and learn to see
Dadd11 C#dim C
All your life
Cm G/B A7 C/D
You were only waiting for this moment
G
to be free
[Chorus]
Fadd9 Em Dmadd11 C Bb6 C Fadd9 Em Dmadd11 C Bb6 A7 C/D G Am7 G/B
Blackbird fly Blackbird fly In to the light of the dark black night
G C C#dim Dadd11 D#dim Em Dadd11 C#dim C
Cm G/B A7 C/D G
Fadd9 Em Dmadd11 C Bb6 C Fadd9 Em Dmadd11 C Bb6 A7 C/D G Am7 G/B
Blackbird fly Blackbird fly In to the light of the dark black night
G G Am7 G/B C G/B A7 C/D
[Verse 3]
G Am7 G/B G
Blackbird singing in the dead of night
C C#dim Dadd11 D#dim Em
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
Dadd11 C#dim C
All your life
Cm G/B A7 C/D
You were only waiting for this moment
G
to arise
[Outro]
C G/B A7 C/D
You were only waiting for this moment
G
to arise
C G/B A7 C/D
You were only waiting for this moment
G
to arise
In a dimly lit room, fingers gently graze the keys,
Playing the chords of “Blackbird” with graceful ease.
A melody born from a legendary band’s desire,
To set hearts on fire, to make spirits aspire.
The piano whispers secrets, like a timeless friend,
Each chord and note a story, a journey without end.
As I press the keys, the song begins to take flight,
Like a blackbird in the night, against the canvas of light.
The ivories dance beneath my gentle command,
Creating a symphony that’s both soothing and grand.
With McCartney’s lyrics, like poetry they soar,
In this musical tapestry, forever to adore.
A tale of hope and freedom, it beautifully weaves,
Through the chords and the melodies, my soul perceives.
With each stroke, I’m transported, my spirit takes flight,
On the wings of “Blackbird,” through the darkness of night.
The piano’s song lingers, like a sweet, haunting dream,
In the quiet of the night, it’s more than it may seem.
For within those chords, there’s a message so clear,
To embrace life’s challenges, to conquer all fear.
So I’ll keep playing the chords of “Blackbird” with grace,
In this timeless melody, I’ll find my own place.
For music, like life, is a journey untold,
And through the piano’s magic, my story unfolds.