About The Song
Released in 1965 on their groundbreaking album Rubber Soul, “Michelle” marked a shift in the band’s sound. It was a time of experimentation and artistic growth, a move away from the pure pop of their earlier years. “Michelle” embodied this shift perfectly. Here was a song that was delicate, introspective, and dared to be different.
Written primarily by Paul McCartney, with some input from John Lennon on the middle eight, “Michelle” is a love song unlike any other in The Beatles’ catalog. It’s a serenade to a mysterious woman named Michelle, sung with a tenderness and vulnerability rarely seen from the band. The melody is simple yet elegant, driven by McCartney’s fingerpicking guitar style, inspired by the American country legend Chet Atkins. This technique provided a unique soundscape, a departure from the band’s usual wall of sound.
But what truly sets “Michelle” apart is its inclusion of French lyrics. Now, for a band known for their catchy English tunes, this was a bold move. The story goes that McCartney, at the time, was taking French lessons and was fascinated by the language’s beauty. This fascination found its way into the song, with the lines “Sont des rêves à venir” (These are dreams to come) and “Une petite fille de seize ans” (A girl of sixteen) adding a touch of exoticism and intrigue.
“Michelle” was an instant success, both critically and commercially. It topped charts around the world and even won a Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1967. But more importantly, it cemented The Beatles’ reputation as not just a rock and roll band, but as true musical innovators, willing to push boundaries and explore new artistic avenues.
So, the next time you hear the opening notes of “Michelle”, take a moment to appreciate its significance. It’s a song that speaks of love and longing, a testament to The Beatles’ artistic growth, and a reminder that even the biggest bands can surprise you with a touch of French flair.