Taxman

George Harrison

About Taxman

"Taxman" is a song by the English rock band the Beatles and released as the opening track on their 1966 album Revolver. Written by the group's lead guitarist George Harrison, its lyrics attack the high levels of progressive tax taken by the British Labour government of Harold Wilson.


Year:
1992
4:15
617 

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Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me
'Cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman

Should five per cent appear too small
Be thankful I don't take it all
'Cause I'm the taxman, yeah I'm the taxman

If you drive a car, I'll tax the street,
If you try to sit, I'll tax your seat.
If you get too cold I'll tax the heat,
If you take a walk, I'll tax your feet.

Don't ask me what I want it for
If you don't want to pay some more
'Cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman

Now my advice for those who die
Declare the pennies on your eyes
'Cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman
And you're working for no one but me.

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George Harrison

George HarrisonMBE (25 February 1943 – 29 November 2001) was an English musician, singer and songwriter who achieved international fame as the lead guitarist of the Beatles. Often referred to as the "quiet Beatle", Harrison over time became an admirer of Indian culture and mysticism, introducing it to the other Beatles, as well as to their Western audience. Following the band's break-up, enjoyed a successful solo career, and in 1988 he co-founded the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys, with Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne and Roy Orbison. Rolling Stone magazine ranked Harrison number 11 in their list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time". more »

11 fans

Written by: George Harrison

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Composition
The song "Taxman" is known for being one of the first songs mainly composed by George Harrison for The Beatles.
Released Date
"Taxman" was officially released on August 5, 1966, as part of The Beatles' studio album "Revolver.”
Recording
The band recorded the track on April 20 and 21, 1966, at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London.
Lyrics Inspiration
George Harrison was inspired to write this song due to his frustration with the high percentage of income tax he was obliged to pay, which was, at the time, almost 95%.
Guitar Solo
Though George Harrison was The Beatles' main guitarist, the guitar solo in "Taxman" was actually played by Paul McCartney.
Satirical Song
"Taxman" is notable for its satirical content aimed at the British Labour government, and particularly their high tax rate for high-income individuals.
Cover Art
The cover art of the "Revolver" album, where "Taxman" resides, was created by artist Klaus Voormann. It won a Grammy for Album Cover, Graphic Arts in 1966.
Sound Effect
An interesting feature of "Taxman" is the countdown at the beginning of the song, which is done by Paul McCartney and counts off "1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2...," adding a new style to the intro.
Song Influences
"Taxman" displays the influence of Indian classical music on George Harrison’s songwriting, featuring a mixolydian scale on D in the guitar solo.
Tribute
In the song's lyrics, George Harrison mentions "Mr. Wilson" and "Mr. Heath," referring to Harold Wilson, the UK Prime Minister at the time, and Edward Heath, the Leader of the Opposition.
Notable Covers
"Taxman" has been covered by various artists over the years, including Junior Parker, The Jam, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
Live Performances
Despite its popularity, "Taxman" was never performed live by The Beatles during their active years. However, George Harrison did perform it during his solo career.

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