“You Never Give Me Your Money”

• Published on 1969
• Author: Lennon/McCartney
• Track 9 on “Abbey Road“

GEORGE 1969: “It does two verses of one tune, and then the bridge is almost like a different song altogether, so it’s quite melodic.”

PAUL 1988: “We wanted to dabble, and I had a bit of fun making some of the songs fit together, with key changes (into the long medley). That was nice. It worked out well.”

About “You Never Give Me Your Money”

“You Never Give Me Your Money” was written by Paul McCartney and released on 1969 album Abbey Road. The song is part of the famous medley that makes up the majority of the second side of the album.

The song is notable for its intricate structure, featuring several distinct sections that flow seamlessly into one another. It starts as a reflective piece about the financial disputes and difficulties within the band, which were occurring at the time.

The song undergoes a musical and thematic shift, moving from a melancholic, reflective tone to a more upbeat, optimistic one. This mirrors the evolving dynamics within the band during this period.

Overall, “You Never Give Me Your Money” is regarded as one of Paul McCartney’s finest compositions, and it remains a beloved track among Beatles fans. It’s also a testament to the creative and emotional depth of the music they were producing during a time of significant turmoil and change in their careers.

Meaning of “You Never Give Me Your Money”

You Never Give Me Your Money” delves into the personal and financial struggles the Beatles faced in the late 1960s. The song touches on disputes about money and its management within the band.

The title and repeated line “You never give me your money” can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically, suggesting a sense of betrayal or a lack of emotional support. It is a literal representation of the financial issues they were dealing with, but it also carries metaphorical weight, symbolizing the strains on their relationships. The lyrics reflect the growing tension and financial troubles that were plaguing the Beatles in the late 1960s.

As the song progresses, it shifts musically and thematically, eventually evolving into an upbeat, optimistic section that contrasts with the earlier melancholy tone. This transition reflects the sense of hope and renewal that was emerging within the band during this period.

Personnel

• Paul McCartney – lead and backing vocals, piano, bass, wind chimes, tape loops
• John Lennon – guitar, backing vocal
• George Harrison – guitar, backing vocal
• Ringo Starr – drums, tambourine