The Beatles were more than just bandmates—they were a tight-knit group of friends, rivals, collaborators, and brothers. Over the years, their complex relationships inspired not just timeless music but also deeply personal songs that reflected their evolving dynamics. Whether in the form of admiration, frustration, or farewell, the Fab Four often wrote about each other—sometimes subtly, sometimes unmistakably. Here are eight songs The Beatles wrote that were directly or indirectly inspired by one another, revealing the emotional undercurrents within the world’s most famous band.
1. “Hey Jude” – Paul to Julian Lennon (and John)
Originally titled “Hey Jules,” this song was written by Paul McCartney to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce. However, as the song developed, it also became a veiled message to John himself, offering support during his transition into a relationship with Yoko Ono. It’s a classic example of Paul expressing care through music, even in times of emotional tension.
2. “How Do You Sleep?” – John to Paul
Perhaps the most notorious Beatles diss track, “How Do You Sleep?” was written by John Lennon during a period of bitter fallout after the band’s breakup. With biting lyrics like “The only thing you done was yesterday,” John aimed squarely at Paul, frustrated by legal disputes and perceived slights. It’s raw, honest, and ultimately a snapshot of just how strained things had become between the two at the time.
3. “Too Many People” – Paul to John
Before John fired back, Paul had already taken his own subtle jabs. “Too Many People” from his 1971 Ram album includes veiled references to John and Yoko’s activism and self-righteous attitude, according to McCartney himself. Lines like “You took your lucky break and broke it in two” stung enough to provoke Lennon’s retaliatory song.
4. “In My Life” – John (and Paul) Reflecting on Their Bond
Though often seen as John’s lyrical introspection, Paul also contributed to the music of “In My Life.” The song reads like a nostalgic ode to the people and places of youth—perhaps even a quiet tribute to the early days of their friendship and partnership. It’s one of the more tender, if indirect, examples of how their shared history shaped their songwriting.
5. “Two of Us” – Paul to John
On the surface, “Two of Us” sounds like a love song, but it’s widely interpreted as a reflection of Paul’s feelings about his friendship with John. The lyrics speak of simpler times and growing apart, laced with both affection and sadness. It’s an emotional nod to the bond that had frayed by the end of the ’60s.
6. “Jealous Guy” – John’s Apology
Though not written as a Beatles song, “Jealous Guy” is often read as an apology to both Yoko Ono and Paul McCartney. Lennon admitted he was prone to jealousy and possessiveness, traits that strained his closest relationships. The vulnerability in the song stands in contrast to the aggression of “How Do You Sleep?”, showing a different side of John.
7. “Friends to Go” – Paul’s Tribute to George
Released years after George Harrison’s death, “Friends to Go” was described by Paul as being inspired by George’s musical style—and even feeling like George was “writing through him.” It’s a loving nod to their friendship, which had endured ups and downs but ended on warm terms.
8. “All Those Years Ago” – George to John
After Lennon’s assassination in 1980, George Harrison wrote “All Those Years Ago” as a tribute to his fallen friend. With Ringo on drums and Paul and Linda contributing vocals, the song was a rare post-breakup collaboration filled with admiration, regret, and a deep sense of loss.
These songs show that The Beatles’ relationships weren’t just tabloid fodder—they were the very heart of some of their most powerful and personal music. Whether through praise, conflict, or reconciliation, the Beatles left a musical trail of their love, rivalry, and brotherhood that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
