Taxman

George Harrison wrote Taxman when he learned that he had hit the UK's highest tax bracket (a marginal rate of 95%). It was a strong rock 'n' roll number, perhaps the group's srongest ever, and the first overtly political song performed by the Beatles. John probably contributed a few lines to the lyrics, such as "Now My advice for those who die -- Declare the pennies on your eyes." The bridge ends with a Paul and John shout of "Taxman!" that is a clear reference to the Batman TV serial popular at the time. The recording of this song was fragmented. In April of 1966 the group first made 4 takes and then trashed them, re-doing the rhythm track and overdubbing the vocals. John re-worked the backing vocal track and Ringo added a cowbell. Paul wrote a guitar solo for George, Indian-style, and then in May and June the group added other elements (like George's count-off and a fading outro featuring Paul).