Why “I’Ll Be Back” Had An Unusual Chord Progression For A Beatles Song

March 20, 2025

It was a rainy afternoon in Liverpool, and John Lennon sat in his favorite corner of the small cafe, surrounded by the hum of chatter and the smell of freshly brewed coffee. As he stared out at the droplets racing down the window, he felt a wave of inspiration washing over him. In that moment, he was determined to write a song that would resonate not just with his bandmates but with people all over the world. Little did he know, this song would come to be known as “I’ll Be Back,” and its unusual chord progression would become a trademark of his creativity.

John had always been a bit of a musical experimenter. While the Beatles were known for their catchy melodies and straightforward rock sound, he wanted to push the boundaries. That day, as he scribbled down lyrics on a napkin, he mixed different musical styles in his head. The haunting Fm chord, which seemed out of place in pop music, suddenly felt right. It was a risk, one that many would have avoided, but John thrived on the idea of doing something different. He envisioned a song that captured the feelings of love and longing, and the unusual chords reflected the complexity of those emotions.

When John brought the song to the band, he could see the curiosity and hesitation in their eyes. Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were used to more conventional sounds. But John’s passion was infectious. He played the song for them, and despite the odd chord structure, they could feel the raw emotion in it. Paul added harmonies that brought the song to life, and soon, “I’ll Be Back” was not just a collection of notes and words—it was a powerful expression of vulnerability and hope. The song reminded them that even when love feels distant, there’s always a possibility of returning.

Recording the song was a journey in itself. The Beatles were known for their groundbreaking studio techniques, and this track was no different. As they layered the instruments and harmonies, the unusual chord progression took on a magic of its own. Each note seemed to intertwine with the others, creating a tapestry of sound that was rich and captivating. John felt a sense of achievement as the song began to take shape, each twist and turn in the chords echoing the unpredictable nature of love and life itself.

When “I’ll Be Back” was finally released, it captured the hearts of fans everywhere. Critics admired the boldness of the chord progression, and listeners found solace in its message. John realized that taking risks in music was what mattered most. This song, with its unusual structure, demonstrated that pushing boundaries could lead to beautiful results. It became a symbol of resilience—not just for John, but for anyone who faced doubts about their path.

As the years went by, John continued to write music that defied expectations. “I’ll Be Back” remained a testament to his belief that creativity flourished in the face of uncertainty. Each time he played it, it reminded him of that rainy afternoon in the cafe when he embraced his passion and found the courage to be different. The song carried a message that stayed with him: even when we stray from what’s familiar, we can always find our way back to what matters most, whether it’s through music, love, or the connections we share with others.