Thingumybob: Introduction
“Thingumybob” is an instrumental piece written by Paul McCartney and recorded as a single release by the Black Dyke Mills Band. They are a brass band from Yorkshire, England. However, we will also examine its links to a TV show from 1968.
To begin with, here are the key details about this recording:
The Single: In Detail
- A-Side: “Thingumybob” (instrumental)
- B-Side: “Yellow Submarine” (an instrumental brass version of the Beatles’ hit)
- Composer: Paul McCartney (credit goes to Lennon-McCartney)
- Conductor: Geoffrey Brand
- Performed by: Black Dyke Mills Band (official credit: “John Foster & Sons Ltd Black Dyke Mills Band”)
- Released: August 26, 1968 (US) and September 6, 1968 (UK)
- Label: Apple Records (first single by the new company)
- Genre: Brass Band, Instrumental, Military style
- Recording Date: June 30, 1968
- Location: Saltaire, Yorkshire, England
- Producer: Paul McCartney with George Martin assisting
Performers And Instruments
- Chris Spedding: lead guitar
- Herbie Flowers: bass guitar
- Clem Cattini: drums
The track also showcases McCartney’s versatility as a composer and his interest in different musical genres beyond rock and pop.
Thingumybob: Background
This post is more about the Paul McCartney composition, but in the beginning came the TV show. So, we shall explore this now.
- Purpose: “Thingumybob” was the theme tune for a British television sitcom of the same name, which was about the comedic adventures of a village brass band.
- Apple Records: This recording is also notable as one of the early releases on Apple Records, the label founded by The Beatles.
Thingumybob was a popular television series that aired from 1968 to 1969 (from London Weekend Television). The show revolved around the misadventures of a group of lovable outcasts living in a small village in southern England.
- Stanley Holloway: played the mischievous old age pensioner “Bob Bridge”
- Rose Hill: played Fay Bridge
- John Junkin (also starred as “Shake” in The Beatles film “A Hard Days Night“) played Bert Ryding
- Kate Williams: played Monica Ryding
- Stella Tanner: played Mrs Green
- Bert Palmer: played George
- Wally Patch: played Henry
The unfortunate thing is that there are no known tapes or recordings from this show. So, we may never see what the show was like. But who knows what may surface in the future?
The series creator, Dennis Spooner, wanted a catchy theme song that would capture the show’s lighthearted and playful spirit. Enter Paul McCartney, who was already an established star with the Beatles but was eager to explore solo projects outside of the band.
Thingumybob Single: Recording Studio And Background
Although this track was recorded both inside and outside in Saltaire, Yorkshire, UK, its origins are at Abbey Road Studios.
Indeed, this evolved from the Beatles song “Etcetera” which McCartney ditched in 1968. But should he have done this?
McCartney recorded a single demo in the studio while he waited for band members to turn up to rehearse “Mother Nature’s Son” and “Wild Honey Pie” for the White Album. This recording was taken away and not seen again for decades, but it still exists.
Furthermore, it was forgotten about. However, it came out that Paul McCartney has the acetate copy safely under wraps.
Paul McCartney’s intention was to give it to Marianne Faithfull so she could record it. However, that idea did not come to fruition. Maybe we will see “Etcetera” released one day, then we can see how similar it is to “Thingumybob.”
The Black Dyke Mills Band
- Formation: The Black Dyke Mills Band is one of the oldest and most famous brass bands in the world. Its formation date is 1855.
- Connection with The Beatles: The band’s collaboration with McCartney brought them into the spotlight of the rock and pop music world.
- Reception: The recording did not achieve significant commercial success. But is remembered for its unique contribution to the early catalogue of Apple Records and its blend of popular music with traditional brass band sounds.
Thingumybob: Legacy
“Thingumybob” stands as an example of McCartney’s wide-ranging musical interests and his willingness to experiment with different forms and styles. The collaboration with the Black Dyke Mills Band remains a curious and charming footnote in the history of The Beatles and their associated projects.
This recording reflects McCartney’s penchant for melody and his ability to create music that could fit a wide range of contexts, from television themes to hit pop songs.
To Sum Up “Thingumybob”
In conclusion, ‘Thingumybob’ is a fascinating, offbeat chapter in Paul McCartney’s storied career. It showcases his versatility and playfulness as a composer. While it may not be as well-known as some of his other works, this delightful theme song is a testament to McCartney’s status as a master craftsman of popular music.
What sets ‘Thingumybob’ apart from other McCartney compositions is its playful, carefree nature. This is a marching/military track that wears its heart on its sleeve. It exudes a sense of joy and spontaneity that’s hard to resist. It’s a testament to McCartney’s ability to craft catchy melodies that stick in your head long after the song has ended.
This is one of the compositions that The Beatles gave away, but there are numerous others.
Take A Listen
Finally, listen to the track in question. Then, give us your thoughts below.
