Rubber Soul

The sixth studio album by The Beatles, “Rubber Soul,” was a massive change of pace from the band’s poppy, cut and dry style. It showed their openness to different musical influences and the willingness to expand and adapt their musical style, both in terms of sound and songwriting. By being able to record the entire album uninterrupted, The Beatles were able to focus more on making a truly exceptional album.
“Rubber Soul,” exhibits more songwriting depth and ability in its 14 songs than in the five previous albums combined. Instead of singing about loving someone eight days a week and wanting to hold their hand, John Lennon and Paul McCartney find themselves wondering if anyone is going to listen to their story, all about the girl who came to stay. The songwriting reaches its pinnacle in the song “Michelle.” It’s the melancholy story of an abusive and unappreciative lover in which Lennon and McCartney write, “When I think of all the times I've tried so hard to leave her, she will turn to me and start to cry. And she promises the earth to me, and I believe her. After all this time I don't know why.”
The musical style of the album is another reason why this is one of The Beatles’ best works. The lead guitarist, George Harrison, was infatuated with the sitar at the time of recording, and the second track on the album, “Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown),” was the first pop recording to feature the instrument and its entrancing sound. Ringo Starr, whose drumming chops are still criticized to this day, showed his own desire to expand the sound of the group by incorporating maracas, tambourine, and even books of matches into his repertoire. Also, this is one of the first instances where the band uses distortion on their instruments. The heavy lead guitar riff on, “Think For Yourself,” gives listeners a preview of the band’s future sound. Like many Beatles records, this album doesn’t waste time. In fact, only one of the 14 tracks, “You Won’t See Me,” is more than three minutes long.
The band broadened its influences when recording “Rubber Soul.” Obviously, drugs were some of the biggest influences, but they also drew from other contemporary musicians. Bob Dylan, who was reaching his peak in terms of songwriting during the time of recording, had one of the biggest impacts on the group’s evolution. Instead of turning out the same pop that had dominated their first five records, The Beatles opened up to more folk-oriented acts, and their sound matured as a result.
“Rubber Soul” is arguably The Beatles’ most important album. It was the launching pad for later masterpieces like “Revolver,” “The White Album,” and “Abbey Road.” It’s vastly different sound, innovative style, and developed lyrics marked a turning point in the band’s mindset. All these factors together have given the album staying power that only a handful of other records possess.