| Taxman | |
 | |
| Released | August 5, 1966 |
| Genre | Pop rock |
| Length | 2:39 |
| Revolver Tracklisting Guide | |
| previous N/A |
next Eleanor Rigby |
Taxman is a song written by George Harrison heading off the album Revolver. In this, George is rebelling against British taxes, whereby over time, he figured that most of their earnings went to taxes. Its lyrics attack the high levels of progressive tax taken by the British Labour government of Harold Wilson. Although George was The Beatles' lead guitar player, the famous guitar solo, believed by many to be played by George, was actually done by Paul. It was recorded on April 21 and 22, and May 16, and June 21, 1966; and released on 5 August, 1966.
Lyrics[]
One, two, three, four
One, two (one, two, three, four!)
Let me tell you how it will be (Ah, ah)
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, car)
I'll tax the street
(If you try to sit, sit)
I'll tax your seat
(If you get too cold, cold)
I'll tax the heat
(If you take a walk, walk)
I'll tax your feet
Taxman!
'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman
Don't ask me what I want it for
(Ha, ha, Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more
(Ha, ha, Mr. Heath)
'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman
Now my advice for those who die
(Taxman!)
Declare the pennies on your eyes
(Taxman!)
'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman (yeah, I'm the taxman)
And you're working for no one but me (taxman!)
Behind the scenes[]
As well as Harold Wilson, the Prime Minister of the day, the song also name-checks Edward Heath, the Opposition leader.
Credits[]
- George Harrison - Lead Vocals, Lead and Rhythm Guitar (Fender Stratocaster)
- John Lennon - Harmony Vocals
- Paul McCartney - Bass Guitar (Rickenbacker 4001S), Harmony Vocals, Lead Guitar Solos (Epiphone 230TD Casino)
- Ringo Starr - Drums, Cowbell, Tambourine
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