The One Beatles Song That Took More Than 100 Takes — And Why

April 2, 2025

In a dimly lit recording studio in London, the air was thick with anticipation and the sound of electric guitars. The Beatles, the most celebrated band in the world, were hard at work on their next album, “Revolver.” Among the songs they were experimenting with, one stood out—a track called “Tomorrow Never Knows.” This song was unlike any they had ever done before, pushing the boundaries of music and exploring deep, psychedelic themes. But it also came with an unexpected challenge. It took a staggering 100 takes to finally capture the sound that John Lennon had envisioned.

John, the creative force behind much of the band’s music, had a unique idea for “Tomorrow Never Knows.” He wanted it to reflect a dream-like state, filled with swirling sounds and unexpected rhythms. Inspired by a book on Tibetan Buddhism, John was determined to create something that felt transcendent and otherworldly. Unfortunately, as the days turned into nights, the band struggled to get it right. Each take was filled with sincere attempts, but the magic they sought seemed to slip through their fingers, just out of reach.

With every passing hour, the tension in the studio grew. George, Paul, and Ringo exchanged worried glances, knowing that John was becoming increasingly frustrated. But amidst the pressure, John’s resilience shone brightly. He kept urging his bandmates to experiment with new sounds, layering guitar effects and vocal distortions, trying to find the essence of the song they were after. He believed so deeply in the song’s potential that he refused to give up, even when it felt like they were fighting an uphill battle.

Finally, after countless tries, they landed on a sound that was electrifying. The combination of tape loops, droning guitars, and hypnotic percussion created a sonic tapestry that captured the dreamlike quality John had been envisioning. It was as if they had finally brushed against the edge of a new frontier in music. The joy and relief that flooded the studio when they heard the final mix was indescribable. They had not only created a groundbreaking track; they had forged a deeper bond as a band through their shared struggle and determination.

“Tomorrow Never Knows” became one of The Beatles’ most iconic songs, a testament to their innovative spirit and willingness to embrace the unknown. It also marked a pivotal moment in John Lennon’s life. The experience taught him that true artistry often comes with difficulty and requires perseverance. He learned that when you pour your heart and soul into something, even the toughest challenges can lead to something beautiful. This insight would shape much of his future work, encouraging him to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in music and life.

Years later, when the world listened to “Tomorrow Never Knows,” they didn’t just hear a song; they felt the passion and resilience that went into its creation. It was a reminder of the power of perseverance, of believing in one’s vision even when the road is rocky. For John and his bandmates, it was a celebration of their journey—a journey defined by their commitment to art and the unbreakable bond they shared as friends. In that little studio, through the frustrations and triumphs, they not only changed music forever, but they also discovered something crucial about themselves: the magic of never giving up.