Recording: I Want You (She’s So Heavy)

Trident Studios, St Anne’s Court, London
Producer: Glyn Johns
Engineer: Barry Sheffield

Although The Beatles had performed many of the Abbey Road songs during the Let It Be sessions in January 1969, recording didn’t begin properly until 22 February 1969.

The break was caused in part by the unavailability of Glyn Johns and Billy Preston, who were separately in America in early February. Furthermore, George Harrison was in hospital from 7-15 February to have his tonsils removed.

I Want You (She's So Heavy) EP artwork - Mexico

Returning to Trident Studios in London’s Soho on this day, The Beatles recorded 35 takes of ‘I Want You (She’s So Heavy)’, which at this stage had the working title ‘I Want You’.

Glyn Johns was the producer, and Billy Preston played an organ on the recordings. John Lennon sang live vocals on each of the takes; it was later reported that Paul McCartney sang on one version, but this was actually from 31 January.

The best takes of the day were nine, 20 and 32, and an edit of the three was made on the following day. Work would continue on ‘I Want You (She’s So Heavy)’ until 11 August 1969.

Last updated: 16 November 2022
Ringo Starr attends the UK premiere of Candy
Editing: I Want You (She's So Heavy)
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