Today (09-09-09) marks the landmark re-release of the entire Beatles catalog (thirteen albums plus two additional discs of non-album tracks) as boxed sets and individual discs, in two formats: the original mono recordings (the first four Beatles albums were originally released in mono), as well as new stereo remixed versions. Both versions are remastered to some extent, and this is the first time they’ve been so comprehensively packaged, added-onto and, indeed, promoted (read a review here). Also landing today is the Beatles Rock Band game, in which you can play along with the Fab Four at home. With all this hoopla, I thought we should take a look book at some great Beatles videos on YouTube.

“Don’t Let Me Down” (Live on Rooftop, 1969)

From the famous Beatles rooftop concert. Check out the bobbies in the background with their helmet hats.

“Revolution” (Live, Circa 1968)

Straight-out rocking. By the way, did you know that “Revolution” was originally the B-Side for “Hey Jude”? On its town, the “Revolution” single charted at #12 in the US.

“Let It Be” (1970)

Read a surprisingly detailed article about the song on Wikipedia for more on this classic. Also, tell Paul his beard could use a trim.

“Hey Jude” (Live, Circa 1968)

Perhaps I’m showing my age (or lack thereof) by saying that whenever I hear this song now, I think of The Royal Tenenbaums. Awesome audience participation in the sing-along portion in this video.

“Something” (1969)

Musi video for “Something” which is effectively home movies of the various band members and their girlfriends wives (thanks, commenter Kristine!), including some fairly inappropriate goofing around on motorbikes. Huh? Also features: cavorting in the countryside, walking in the woods, ladies looking lovely.

“Get Back” (Live on Rooftop, 1969)

Another track from the rooftop concert with Paul looking shaggy as ever.

“Come Together” (“Rare Video” from 1969)

“Got to be good-lookin’ ’cause he’s so hard to see.” See also: a live Lennon solo version and Michael Jackson’s version.

“Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” (With “Rare Video” Circa 1965-1966)

As Wikipedia says: “It is notable as the first example of a rock band actually playing the sitar in one of their songs; it was played by George Harrison. The song is a lilting acoustic ballad featuring Lennon’s lead vocal and signature Beatle harmonies in the middle eight.”

“Yesterday” (Live, Circa 1966), Solo Performance By Paul

Well, solo plus orchestra.

Post Your Favorites!

Please find your favorite Beatles track on YouTube and post a link in the comments! I focused heavily on their later years (my favorites), but there’s a deep, deep catalog here.