Let It Be: Lyrics And Chords - The Beatles

by Jhon Lennon 43 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most iconic songs ever written: "Let It Be" by The Beatles. This timeless classic isn't just a beautiful melody; it's a message of hope and reassurance. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, learning to play and understand this song is a rewarding experience. In this article, we'll explore the lyrics, chords, and the story behind this legendary track. So grab your guitar, and let’s get started!

The Story Behind "Let It Be"

"Let It Be" was written by Paul McCartney and released in March 1970, as a single, and later as the title track of The Beatles' final studio album. The song's inspiration came to McCartney in a dream he had during a particularly stressful period for the band. In his dream, his mother, Mary (who had passed away when he was young), appeared to him and reassured him, saying, "Let it be." This dream provided McCartney with a sense of comfort and guidance, which he translated into the lyrics of the song.

The recording of "Let It Be" had its own interesting journey. The initial version was recorded in January 1969 during the "Get Back" sessions, which were intended to capture The Beatles recording live in the studio. However, this version, produced by George Martin, was later shelved. When the "Get Back" project was revisited, Phil Spector was brought in to remix the tracks, including "Let It Be." Spector's version, which included orchestral and choral arrangements, was the one eventually released, although it remains a point of contention among Beatles fans due to its departure from the band's original raw sound.

Lyrically, "Let It Be" is a song about finding peace and guidance in times of trouble. The phrase "Mother Mary" is often interpreted as a reference to the Virgin Mary, though McCartney has confirmed it was indeed about his mother. The song speaks to the idea that even in the darkest moments, there is always a source of comfort and wisdom to turn to. This universal message has resonated with listeners for decades, making "Let It Be" one of The Beatles' most beloved and enduring songs. The simplicity and sincerity of the lyrics, combined with the song's powerful melody, create a truly unforgettable musical experience.

"Let It Be" Lyrics

Here are the complete lyrics to "Let It Be":

[Verse 1] When I find myself in times of trouble Mother Mary comes to me Speaking words of wisdom, let it be And in my hour of darkness She is standing right in front of me Speaking words of wisdom, let it be

[Chorus] Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

[Verse 2] And when the broken-hearted people Living in the world agree There will be an answer, let it be For though they may be parted There is still a chance that they will see There will be an answer, let it be

[Chorus] Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be Yeah, there will be an answer, let it be

[Bridge] And when the night is cloudy There is still a light that shines on me Shine on until tomorrow, let it be I wake up to the sound of music Mother Mary comes to me Speaking words of wisdom, let it be

[Chorus] Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be Yeah, let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

Chords and Guitar Tutorial

Now, let’s get into the chords so you can start playing! "Let It Be" is primarily in the key of C major, making it relatively accessible for guitarists of all levels. Here’s a breakdown of the main chords you’ll need:

  • C (C Major): x32010
  • G (G Major): 320003
  • Am (A minor): x02210
  • F (F Major): 133211

These four chords form the foundation of the song. The verse mainly alternates between C, G, and Am, while the chorus introduces the F chord. Here’s a simplified chord progression:

  • Verse: C - G - Am - F
  • Chorus: F - C - G - C
  • Bridge: Am - G - F - C

To play along with the song, try using a simple strumming pattern like down-down-up-up-down-up. This rhythm works well for most parts of the song. As you become more comfortable, you can add variations and embellishments to make it your own.

For beginners, the F chord might be a bit tricky. If you're having trouble with the full barre chord, you can try a simplified version, playing only the top four strings (x3321x). This will still give you the essence of the F chord without the full barre.

There are tons of online tutorials available that can visually guide you through the chord changes and strumming patterns. Websites like YouTube and Ultimate-Guitar.com have excellent resources for learning "Let It Be" on guitar. Practice slowly at first, focusing on clean chord transitions. With a little patience, you'll be playing this classic in no time!

Simplified Chords for Beginners

If you're just starting out on the guitar, playing full chords can sometimes be a challenge. The good news is that you can simplify the chords for "Let It Be" and still get a great sound. Here are some easier versions of the chords:

  • C (C Major Simplified): x32010 (same as the full chord)
  • G (G Major Simplified): 320003 (same as the full chord)
  • Am (A minor Simplified): x02210 (same as the full chord)
  • F (F Major Simplified): 100211 (Play only the top 5 strings)

The simplified F chord involves playing only the top five strings, which eliminates the need for the full barre. This makes it much easier to switch to and from other chords. You can also try using a capo on the first or second fret to change the key and potentially make the chord shapes even easier to manage.

Another helpful tip for beginners is to focus on smooth transitions between chords. Practice switching between C, G, Am, and F slowly and deliberately. Use a metronome to keep a steady beat and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Remember, consistency is key. Even short practice sessions every day can make a big difference in your progress.

Advanced Techniques and Variations

For more experienced guitarists, "Let It Be" offers plenty of opportunities to add your own flair and creativity. One way to enhance the song is by incorporating fingerpicking patterns. Instead of strumming, try picking individual notes within each chord to create a more intricate and dynamic sound.

Another technique you can use is adding embellishments and passing chords. For example, you could insert a G/B chord (x20033) between the C and Am chords in the verse to create a smoother transition. You can also experiment with addingSus4 chords (like Csus4 or Gsus4) to create tension and release.

If you're feeling adventurous, try playing "Let It Be" in a different key. Transposing the song can open up new possibilities for improvisation and allow you to explore different vocal ranges. You can also experiment with different tunings, such as DADGAD, to create a more atmospheric and ethereal sound.

Ultimately, the best way to improve your playing is to listen to the original recording and try to emulate the nuances of Paul McCartney's performance. Pay attention to his phrasing, dynamics, and subtle variations in the chords. By studying the master, you can unlock new levels of musical expression and bring your own unique interpretation to this timeless classic.

The Enduring Appeal of "Let It Be"

"Let It Be" has remained a beloved song for over five decades, and its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet profound message of hope and resilience. The lyrics offer comfort and reassurance in times of trouble, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is always a light that shines on us. The song's universal themes of love, loss, and redemption resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

Musically, "Let It Be" is a masterpiece of songwriting. The melody is both memorable and moving, and the chord progression is both simple and sophisticated. The song's structure is perfectly balanced, with each verse and chorus building upon the previous one to create a powerful and emotional impact.

"Let It Be" has been covered by countless artists over the years, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the song. From Aretha Franklin's soulful rendition to Nick Cave's haunting version, the song has proven its ability to transcend genres and generations. Whether you're a die-hard Beatles fan or simply appreciate great music, "Let It Be" is a song that will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know to play and appreciate "Let It Be" by The Beatles. Now go pick up your guitar and let those words of wisdom guide you. Happy playing!