Clarabella: Introduction
“Clarabella” is a Beatles’ song that is on their 1994 album, “Live At The BBC.”
In Detail
- Release Date: November 30, 1994
- Recorded: July 2, 1963
- Genre: Blues, rock and roll
- Track Duration: 2:40
- Songwriter: Frank Pingatore
- Producer: Terry Henebery
Performers And Instruments
- Paul McCartney: vocals, bass guitar
- John Lennon: harmonica, rhythm guitar
- George Harrison: lead guitar
- Ringo Starr: drums
Where To Find The Song “Clarabella”
This song is still available on the following album.
Clarabella: Background
Written by Frank Pingatore and recorded by The Jodimars in 1956, the resulting single was a flop. The Jodimars were a group of ex-members of Bill Haley & His Comets who seemingly didn’t get too far together on the music scene. Be that as it may, they did have an impact with The Beatles as they recorded a cover version. However, there is a difference in styles.
Their version of “Clarabella” is slow and in a style similar to that of Gene Vincent and his “Be-Bop-A-Lula.” In contrast, The Beatles version is a bluesy rock and roll number. From time to time, Paul McCartney would sing in the style of Little Richard, and this number has his characteristics.
Of course, The Beatles had the knack of capturing old, obscure songs and putting their own spin on them. Indeed, they were masters in the making, and covering these songs gave them much more confidence.
Recording Studio
Although they didn’t use the EMI Studios in Abbey road to record “Clarabella”, the quality is still quite good. They obviously made good use of the facilities offered by the BBC at the time.
In the early 1960s, The Beatles performed in 52 programmes for BBC Radio shows. In effect, they took advantage of the free publicity.
They recorded this song on July 2, 1963, for the “Pop Go The Beatles” programme airing on July 16. Because of this, it is now commercially available on their 1994 album, “Live At The BBC.” There it is on disc one, before track 20, “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Cry (Over You).”
Take A Listen
Once you listen to this song, consider leaving a comment below.
