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Questions about The Beatles (album)

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When was The Beatles White Album released?

The Beatles was released on the 22nd of November 1968 in Britain and three days later in the United States. It was the first album released on Apple Records and the band's ninth studio album.

How many songs are on The Beatles White Album?

The Beatles contains 30 songs across four sides. It is the only double album the group ever released, and George Martin argued at the time that the number should be cut to produce a single, stronger record.

Why did Ringo Starr quit during the White Album sessions?

Ringo Starr left the studio on the 22nd of August 1968 during the session for "Back in the U.S.S.R.", feeling his role was peripheral and frustrated by McCartney's repeated criticism of his drumming. He returned on the 5th of September to find his drum kit decorated with flowers, a welcome-back gesture from Harrison.

Where did the Beatles write the songs for the White Album?

Most songs were written during a Transcendental Meditation course with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in Rishikesh, India, between February and April 1968. Collectively the group wrote around forty new songs there, with Lennon contributing the bulk of the material.

Who designed the White Album cover?

Conceptual artist Richard Hamilton designed the sleeve in collaboration with McCartney. Each original pressing carried a unique stamped serial number; the first four copies went to the band members, and Ringo Starr's copy, number 0000001, sold for $790,000 at auction in 2015.

How did Charles Manson interpret the White Album?

Manson allegedly interpreted several songs, including "Helter Skelter", "Piggies", and "Revolution 9", as a coded apocalyptic message predicting a racial uprising, drawing parallels with chapter 9 of the Book of Revelation. He was unaware that "helter skelter" is British English for a fairground spiral slide.

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