What was meant to be a “commissioned song” for the upcoming film, turns out to be one of the most heartfelt songs by the author. It's a true “cry for help” from John Lennon, but also one of the greatest successes of the Beatles.
According to the words of Stanley Parkers, Lennon's cousin and friend, one evening John returns from the studio and says «God, they've changed the title of the film: it's going to be called “Help!” now. So I've had to write a new song with the title called “Help!”»
Help! is therefore a “commissioned song” for the upcoming film. However, it ultimately becomes one of the most heartfelt songs by the author. Written by John Lennon during a period of depression and stress (which he later referred to as the «Fat Elvis period») due to the sudden fame achieved with the Beatles. It's one of the first songs where John truly reveals himself, without any disguise. He truly feels that he's losing control of his own life («And now my life has changed in oh so many ways, my independence seems to vanish in the haze») and asks for help to get his feet back on the ground («Help me get my feet back on the ground»).
Consistent with this state of mind, the song initially starts as a slow and meditative ballad. It is later sped up and enriched upon the request of the production. In hindsight, Lennon expressed regret for this commercial choice, although the enormous worldwide success is also attributed to the fitting rhythm and melody.
In our video, we tried to add some special touches here and there, taking inspiration from various clips that the Fabs filmed for Help!. From the video where they are seen sitting in a row on a bench to the famous performance on the Ed Sullivan Show, to the opening credits of the film. All of this edited together with our usual recording footage.
Recorded and mixed by Massimo Gerini.
Video by Brizio Romagnoli.
Thanks to Claudio Zamparini and the entire staff of “La Notte degli Oscar” restaurant in Matelica for the location and culinary support, to Roberta e Cristina for shooting under threat, and to Alessia for pressing the "play" button :)
