Hey Jude

The Beatles' 'Hey Jude' is a song that has resonated with audiences for generations, offering a message of comfort and encouragement. Written by Paul McCartney and credited to the Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership, the song was released in 1968 and quickly became one of the band's most iconic tracks. The lyrics are directed at Julian Lennon, John Lennon's son, during his parents' divorce, but they have since taken on a universal appeal, speaking to anyone in need of a little solace.

The song begins with a gentle exhortation to not dwell on the negatives ('don't make it bad') but instead to transform a 'sad song' into something positive. The repeated advice to 'let her into your heart' and 'start to make it better' suggests a path to healing through openness and love. The 'her' in the song could be interpreted as a specific person, such as a loved one or partner, or more abstractly as love itself or a form of inner peace. The song's structure builds from a simple ballad to an epic singalong, mirroring the journey from introspection to a more expansive, shared experience.

The chorus, with its catchy 'na-na-na' refrain, serves as a soothing mantra that invites listeners to join in and find a sense of community and support. The song's message is ultimately one of resilience and hope, encouraging the listener to not bear life's burdens alone ('don't carry the world upon your shoulders') and to embrace the power of personal change ('the movement you need is on your shoulder'). 'Hey Jude' remains a testament to The Beatles' ability to craft songs that touch the heart and offer a sense of companionship and uplift to those who hear it.