The Beatles' 'Hey Jude' has one of the band's most confusing/controversial lines

The 56th anniversary of The Beatles' "Hey Judge" is coming up soon (released on August 26). So it's a perfect time to reflect on one of the song's classic, perhaps confusing lines. What is the lyric?

Billionaire Paul McCartney has faced criticism for writing the lyric "the movement you need is on your shoulder" in the song "Hey Jude," as some consider it obscure or difficult to interpret. When McCartney initially played the song for John Lennon and reached this line, he was uncertain about its clarity and thought it might sound awkward. However, Lennon reassured McCartney, stating that it was the best line in the song and appreciating its poetic and ambiguous nature.

Despite Lennon's praise, some listeners and critics have found the line confusing or odd, leading to mixed reactions. "Hey Jude," a song by The Beatles, was released in 1968 and became one of the band's most iconic hits. It was written by McCartney to comfort John Lennon's son, Julian, during his parents' divorce.

The song, which runs for over seven minutes, was a significant departure from the standard pop song length at the time. It features an extended coda with a sing-along refrain that has become one of the most famous in rock music history. "Hey Jude" was the first release on The Beatles' Apple Records label and topped the charts in many countries, including the United States, where it stayed at number one for nine weeks.

Who were the Beatles (as if you didn't know!)?

The Beatles, consisting of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, were a British rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. They are widely regarded as the most influential band of all time. The Beatles' innovative approach to music and their profound cultural impact have left a lasting legacy (and lasting sales), and their songs continue to be celebrated and analyzed decades after their initial release.

Why the lyric adds to the band's legacy

While the lyric "the movement you need is on your shoulder" has sparked debate among listeners and critics, it remains an interesting aspect of the complex artistry of The Beatles and their ability to create music that resonates on multiple levels. Most people probably don't have an idea of what the famous line means, and that's okay. It adds a level of mystique, and it's interesting how one little line can add so many historical layers to a song.