The Beatles’ “This Boy”: A Harmonious Blend of Emotion and Simplicity
“This Boy” is a tender and harmonious ballad by The Beatles, released in 1963 as the B-side to the hit single “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song stands out for its beautiful vocal harmonies and its heartfelt lyrics about love, longing, and the pain of unrequited affection. “This Boy” showcases The Beatles’ ability to craft emotionally resonant songs even in their early career, demonstrating a depth and maturity in their songwriting that would only continue to grow.
Lyrically, “This Boy” tells the story of a young man who is heartbroken over losing the one he loves to someone else. The song’s protagonist expresses his sorrow and longing, but also his hope that the girl will eventually realize that the other boy won’t love her as he does. The song opens with the lines, “That boy took my love away, he’ll regret it someday, but this boy wants you back again.” The lyrics are simple yet effective, capturing the vulnerability and emotional intensity of young love.
The chorus, “Oh, and this boy would be happy just to love you, but oh my, that boy won’t be happy till he’s seen you cry,” emphasizes the contrast between the protagonist’s sincere love and the other boy’s potential lack of genuine affection. The repetition of “this boy” throughout the song underscores the protagonist’s deep emotional attachment and his desire to be the one who truly loves and cares for the girl.
Musically, “This Boy” is notable for its lush three-part vocal harmonies, which became a hallmark of The Beatles’ early sound. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison’s voices blend seamlessly together, creating a rich, melodic texture that adds to the song’s emotional impact. The song’s structure is simple, featuring a straightforward chord progression and a gentle rhythm that allows the harmonies to take center stage. The middle-eight section, sung by Lennon, adds a touch of intensity and passion to the song, with his voice rising above the harmonies to express the depth of the protagonist’s feelings.
“This Boy” was recorded during the same sessions as “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and was intended as a more introspective counterbalance to the upbeat A-side. The Beatles’ use of close vocal harmonies in “This Boy” was inspired by the harmonies of American vocal groups like The Everly Brothers and The Shirelles, both of whom were significant influences on The Beatles during their early years.
The song was well-received by fans and critics alike, particularly for its vocal arrangement and emotional depth. While it may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of The Beatles’ other early hits, “This Boy” remains a favorite among fans for its simplicity, sincerity, and the way it showcases the group’s vocal talents.
In conclusion, “This Boy” by The Beatles is a beautiful and emotionally resonant ballad that highlights the band’s early mastery of vocal harmonies and their ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet effective lyrics. With its heartfelt message of love and longing, “This Boy” stands as a testament to The Beatles’ songwriting skills and their ability to create timeless music that continues to resonate with listeners. The song remains a cherished part of The Beatles’ early catalog, capturing the essence of young love and the pain of unrequited affection with grace and sincerity.
