Shout: Introduction
“Shout” is a cover song which The Beatles recorded in 1964. The Isley Brothers took the song into the charts in 1959, but many other artists made good use of it. Obviously, Lulu had chart success with it in 1964.
The Beatles were to use it in a television special, “Around The Beatles,” also in 1964. In short, the Beatles’ version appears on their Anthology 1 album.
In Detail
Release Date: November 21, 1995
Recorded: April 19, 1964
Studio: IBC Studios (International Broadcasting Company) live for ‘Around the Beatles’
Track Duration: 1:31
Songwriters: O’Kelly Isley, Jr., Rudolph Isley, Ronald Isley
Producer: Jack Good
Engineer: Terry Johnson
Performers And Instruments
- John Lennon: vocals, also the rhythm guitar
- Paul McCartney: vocals and the bass guitar
- George Harrison: vocals, also the lead guitar
- Ringo Starr: vocals, drums
Indeed, all the individual Beatles take part in the vocals on this song.
Where To Find “Shout”
Of course, most people will recognise and love Lulu’s version of the song best. However, you can still buy the Beatles version on the following album:
Shout: Background
In the UK, “Shout” became a massive hit for Lulu and the Luvvers, which peaked at number 8 in the charts. Lulu’s song is still as popular today as it has ever been. In fact, most karaoke events will see some budding star singing Lulu’s song from time to time. Not only that, but the age range of those singers will be anything over 18, such is the song’s appeal.
The Beatles were “jacks of all trades” when it came to singing, so they too recorded their version. However, their cover versions were mainly out of their appreciation of the singers and songs. Covering songs may have helped establish the Fab Four while gigging, but they knew they could write all their own material.
Recording Studio
On May 6, 1964, ITV (Independent Television) broadcast a TV special called “Around the Beatles.” The show was to feature The Beatles, obviously. But there was to be a host of other performers too, with the Fab Four becoming backing singers with some of those.
The Beatles pre-recorded the music for the show on April 19, 1964, at the IBC Studios in London. So this meant that The Beatles mimed throughout the show.
There are bootlegs of the show available, but some of the songs from the show appear on The Beatles’ Anthology 1 album from 1995. Indeed, “Shout” is on side 2, track 16, on the CD version. What is noticeable is the omission of the screams coming from the audience.
This is intentional on the album because the mixing came from the original pre-recorded version and not the actual TV soundtrack.
Take A Listen
Finally, there’s no comparison with the version by Lulu, but you can let us know what you think below. For example, do you think The Beatles should have recorded this professionally, etc.?
