What’s The New Mary Jane
“What’s The New Mary Jane” is not the usual type of Beatles’ song. However, as recorded during the “White Album” sessions, it’s clear that the album was its target. But, in the end, we never saw this song until they brought out the “Anthology 3” album in 1996.
In Detail
- Release Date: October 28, 1996
- Recorded: August 14, 1968
- Studio: EMI Studios, London
- Genre: Experimental, comedy
- Track Duration: 6:12 (released version)
- Record Label: Apple Records
- Songwriters: Lennon-McCartney
- Producer: George Martin**
- Engineers: Ken Scott, Mike Sheady
**In addition, John Lennon helped produce the track
Performers And Instruments
- John Lennon: vocals, piano, tambourine, also some effects
- George Harrison: vocals, acoustic guitar, percussion, and some effects
Other Performers
- Yoko Ono: vocals, percussion, as well as some effects
- Mal Evans: handbell, also effects
**Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr play no part in the Anthology 3 recording.
Where To Find “What’s The New Mary Jane”
You can still buy this Beatles song as it appears on an album. Click on the image to see what else it contains.
What’s The New Mary Jane: Background
The song is weird but fun. So, it shows that they were just messing about in the studio. Especially while they were experimenting with “Revolution 9,” etc.
The track consists of three verses and a chorus of “What a shame, Mary Jane had a pain at the party.” Lasting over six minutes, the last three of those involve avant-garde sound effects. Then, at the end, we hear John Lennon say, “Let’s hear it before we get taken away.” However, part of the word “away” is missing.
Recording Studio
The original demo took place at George Harrison’s home in May 1968, so they had an idea what sort of sound they were after. Obviously, this would evolve further in the recording studio.
On August 14, 1968, at Abbey Road Studios in London, they recorded four takes. However, only John Lennon and George Harrison were to record the song.
John Lennon obviously thought highly about this strange track, having spent much time with it. Indeed, he wanted it to appear on the “White Album” or as a B-side to a single. Neither was to happen due to various objections from others. After all, this was at a time when there was a lot of bickering within the band.
So, listen to “What’s The New Mary Jane” and give us your thoughts on this weird song.
Take A Listen
You may need to listen to the song if you have not heard it. If you give it a spin, please feel free to comment below. You may also use the Beatles Forum, so why not open a topic or two?
