“Lady Madonna” #4 4/20/1968

The Beatles asked to meet Fats Domino prior to a 1964 New Orleans show, as he was a major influence on them. Paul wrote this tribute to working-class women everywhere as a tip of the hat to Mr. Domino, who covered the song himself a few months later. The Fabs sang through cupped hands to create that kazoo-like sound in the middle. Four sax players were brought in at the last minute, all fuming there were no parts written in advance. The single was released while the group was in India though Ringo and Paul came home early, disillusioned with the Maharishi. John and George stayed behind for several weeks. A fair chunk of the White Album was written during the time in India. John was miffed that his “Across The Universe” wasn’t chosen for this single, leading to the rancorous White Album sessions. This is the “official” video authorized by Apple Films, but the pictures and audio are nowhere close to being synced. Clips of the band in the studio recording “Hey Bulldog” were re-edited here attempting to fit “Lady Madonna.”