The Beatles

Lyrics

[Intro: Paul McCartney & George Harrison]
One, two, three, four
One, two— (One, two, three, four!)

[Verse 1]
Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me

[Chorus]
Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

[Verse 2]
Should five percent appear too small
Be thankful, I don't take it all

[Chorus]
Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

[Bridge]
(If you drive a car, car) I'll tax the street
(If you try to sit, sit) I'll tax your seat
(If you get too cold, cold) I'll tax the heat
(If you take a walk, walk) I'll tax your feet
Taxman
[Guitar Solo: Paul McCartney]

[Chorus]
Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

[Verse 3]
Don't ask me what I want it for
(Haha, Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more
(Haha, Mr. Heath)

[Chorus]
Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

[Verse 4]
Now my advice for those who die
(Taxman!)
Declare the pennies on your eyes
(Taxman!)

[Chorus]
Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman
[Outro]
And you're working for no one but me (Taxman!)

If you're a Beatles fan, then you're probably familiar with the song "Taxman." Released in 1966 as the opening track on the iconic album "Revolver," Taxman shot to fame thanks to its tight guitar rock arrangement and scathing lyrics. Today, it is considered one of the most interesting protest songs of its period, and an excellent example of George Harrison's various styles as a songwriter and musician.

About Taxman

Written and composed by George Harrison, Taxman was created as a direct response to the Labour administration's taxation policy in Britain at the time. The Beatles were among the richest musicians of their generation, and they were required to pay exorbitant taxes on their earnings. According to Harry Pinsker, the accountant for The Beatles at the time, the band was extremely unhappy with this demand. They had grown up poor and had worked tirelessly to make it big - now, someone was trying to take it all away.

The song's lyrics seethe with sarcasm and irony, referencing the Labour government's "super tax" plan. Harrison sings from the perspective of the taxman himself, reminding listeners that the government will take one's cash before he or she gets a chance to spend it. He also takes a quick hit at other authority figures, such as Harold Wilson and the Queen, insinuating that they too might be in on the ploy.

The song's opening riff is the first thing that comes to mind when one recalls the tune. It is a tight little riff that is easy to play and instantly recognizable. It sets the tone for the album, indicating that listeners are in for a treat. After the first ten seconds, Harrison begins to sing, his voice sounding powerful and emotive. Although most people remember 'Taxman' for its lead guitar riff by George, it also contains a groovy solo by Paul McCartney, which dives into the psychedelic sound of the era.

At just over two and a half minutes long, Taxman is a short, yet anthemic tune. While its lyrics are certainly political, the song's music makes one feel like they're at a rock and roll concert. The song's stomping beat, sleek rhythm section, and catchy riff all come together to make for an incredibly memorable song. It is easy to see why the Beatles chose to open "Revolver" with "Taxman" - it is the perfect bookend that sets the tone for the rest of the album.

In many ways, Taxman was a groundbreaking song. It became a classic of the Beatles' discography and was also an inspiration to countless musicians who followed in their footsteps. Thanks to its message of political protest and its catchy tune, "Taxman" will undoubtedly remain an icon of sixties music for many years to come.

Wrapping Up

Whether you're a die-hard Beatles fan or a casual listener, it is easy to see why Taxman is held in such high regard. Its catchy riff, tight arrangement, and powerful lyrics all come together to make for an unforgettable song. Although written as a protest song during a turbulent political period, it remains as relevant and urgent today as it was when it was first released - proof of The Beatles' enduring legacy.

• Release Date: August 5, 1966
• Artist: The Beatles