Podcast Summary: Something About The Beatles - Episode 306: Beatles Olympiad - Glyn Johns' Get Back with Gary Wenstrup

Introduction

In Episode 306 of Something About The Beatles, hosted by award-winning author Robert Rodriguez, the focus shifts to an intriguing exploration of the Beatles' "Get Back" project as envisioned by renowned producer Glyn Johns. Joined by co-host Glenn Johnson, Rodriguez delves deep into an alternate history where Johns' interpretation of the "Get Back" album is examined in detail. This episode promises an intelligent and entertaining analysis, staying true to the podcast's reputation for being smart, funny, and surprising—much like the Fab Four themselves.

Album Overview

Robert Rodriguez opens the discussion by setting the stage for the episode, introducing the concept of the Sappy Beatles Olympiad. He explains that the episode will explore a parallel universe scenario where Glyn Johns' version of the "Get Back" album is released in the spring of 1969, preceding the well-known "Let It Be" album.

Robert Rodriguez [01:21]: “Well, welcome to the next installment of the sappy Beatles Olympiad. Now, as you can see from the title of the show, listeners, we're doing something maybe a little unexpected, but there is a logic.”

Track Listing and Concept

Rodriguez provides a detailed tracklist from the hypothetical Glyn Johns' "Get Back" album, highlighting how it serves as a bridge between the White Album and Abbey Road. The album is portrayed as a more raw and honest collection, stripping away some of the polished production typically associated with George Martin's influence.

Robert Rodriguez [05:47]: “So I'm going to first read off the track list, just so we're clear here…”

Bronze Medal Selection: "Get Back"

Glenn Johnson selects "Get Back" as his bronze medal choice, commending Ringo Starr's drumming pattern, which he describes as a "rock steady gallop." The discussion focuses on the song's rhythm, lyrical content, and its role within the album's overall concept.

Glenn Johnson [08:33]: “Mine is Get Back.”

Glenn Johnson [09:04]: “I would classify it as a rock steady gallop.”

Robert Rodriguez [12:23]: “It's the secret sauce of that track, for sure.”

Silver Medal Selection: "Let It Be"

Rodriguez shifts focus to "Let It Be," awarding it the silver medal. He praises the song's lyrical depth and the interplay between Billy Preston's organ and George Harrison's guitar solo, despite acknowledging Paul's lyrical frustrations.

Glenn Johnson [46:11]: “...can do a good John Lennon vocal version of Long and Winding Road.”

Robert Rodriguez [47:17]: “...and they set the tone perfectly for the album song.”

Gold Medal Selection: "One After 909"

Johnson surprises listeners by selecting "One After 909" as his gold medal winner. He appreciates the song's evolution over the Beatles' career and its significance as a reflection of their growth as musicians.

Glenn Johnson [60:28]: “A song that took their whole career to get it right.”

Production Choices and Critical Reception

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing Glyn Johns' production decisions, such as the selection of specific takes and the inclusion of studio chatter. Rodriguez and Johnson debate whether these choices added authenticity or detracted from the album's cohesion.

Robert Rodriguez [36:31]: “Why do you think he selected the takes he selected?”

Glenn Johnson [37:42]: “This time it's serious.”

They contemplate how critics and fans in 1969 might have received this alternate "Get Back" album, considering the absence of the band's known tensions and the potential for the album to serve as a precursor to more polished releases like Abbey Road.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

As the episode draws to a close, both hosts reflect on the hypothetical nature of Johns' "Get Back" album and its place within the broader Beatles' discography. They acknowledge the enduring fascination with alternate histories in rock music and how such explorations enrich the understanding of the Beatles' creative process.

Glenn Johnson [93:19]: “It's the bridge.”

Robert Rodriguez [85:09]: “This is audio to accompany the film that you see.”

The discussion highlights the complexity of Beatles' production dynamics and the delicate balance producers like Glyn Johns had to maintain. Ultimately, the episode serves as a thought-provoking tribute to the Beatles' enduring legacy and the what-ifs that continue to captivate fans decades later.

Notable Quotes

• Robert Rodriguez [12:23]: “It's the secret sauce of that track, for sure.”

• Glenn Johnson [09:04]: “I would classify it as a rock steady gallop.”

• Robert Rodriguez [47:17]: “...and they set the tone perfectly for the album song.”

• Glenn Johnson [60:28]: “A song that took their whole career to get it right.”

• Glenn Johnson [93:19]: “It's the bridge.”

• Robert Rodriguez [85:09]: “This is audio to accompany the film that you see.”

Conclusion

Episode 306 of Something About The Beatles offers an engaging and in-depth exploration of an alternate Beatles album concept. Through insightful discussions and thoughtful analysis, Robert Rodriguez and Glenn Johnson provide listeners with a fresh perspective on the Beatles' creative journey, blending factual history with imaginative what-ifs. Whether you're a die-hard Beatlemaniac or a casual fan, this episode offers valuable insights into the band's legendary status and the intricate processes behind their timeless music.