When it comes to The Beatles, every album is more than just a collection of songs. From Rubber Soul onward, the band treated albums like works of art. They didn’t just make singles — they created journeys that took listeners somewhere new every time. But if you had to pick a three-song stretch that truly shows their magic, there’s one that stands out: the opening tracks of Revolver.
1. Taxman – George Harrison’s Bold Start
The album opens with Taxman, a song written by George Harrison. It’s a funky, hard-hitting track about taxes, but it’s also playful and sharp. Harrison shows right away that he’s stepping into the spotlight and pushing the band in a new direction. Starting an album with a song about taxes might sound strange, but it immediately grabs your attention.
2. Eleanor Rigby – Paul McCartney’s Emotional Story
Next comes Eleanor Rigby, one of the most famous Beatles songs. Unlike most of their hits, it has no guitars, only a string quartet. The lyrics tell a sad story of lonely people, and the song feels deeply emotional and different. It’s a beautiful departure from typical love songs and shows McCartney’s storytelling skills.
3. I’m Only Sleeping – John Lennon’s Dreamy Experiment
The third track, I’m Only Sleeping, is written by John Lennon. It has a dreamy, hazy feel, with backwards guitar and a relaxed vibe. It’s experimental, showing that The Beatles were ready to try new sounds and push the limits of rock music.
Why This Three-Song Run Works
Together, these three songs show everything the Beatles could do:
George Harrison’s sharp and clever songwriting (Taxman)
Paul McCartney’s emotional depth and classical influence (Eleanor Rigby)
John Lennon’s experimental and innovative style (I’m Only Sleeping)
This run perfectly captures the band at their creative best. It’s bold, emotional, and innovative — a snapshot of The Beatles at the height of their powers.
Some people might argue that Abbey Road or Sgt. Pepper’s has great sequences too, but those albums have songs that sometimes slow the pace or feel like filler. The opening of Revolver, on the other hand, is perfectly consistent and shows the Beatles exploring new ideas in every song.
So if you want to experience the Beatles’ genius in just three tracks, start with Revolver: Taxman, Eleanor Rigby, and I’m Only Sleeping. It’s a short trip, but one that shows just how far the band could go.