Recording, mixing: Maxwell’s Silver Hammer

Studio Two, EMI Studios, Abbey Road
Producer: George Martin
Engineer: Phil McDonald

The Beatles continued work on ‘Maxwell’s Silver Hammer’ during this 2.30-11.30pm session.

The backing track had been recorded on the previous day. During this overdub session, Paul McCartney added bass notes and arpeggios on the piano, George Martin played Hammond organ during the introduction and transitions back into the verses, George Harrison played some electric guitar fed through a Leslie speaker, and Ringo Starr hit an anvil during the choruses.

Paul McCartney's handwritten lyrics for Maxwell's Silver Hammer

There was a proper blacksmith’s anvil brought to the studio for Ringo to hit. They had it rented from a theatrical agency.

Vocals were then added. McCartney recorded his lead part, which he double tracked during the choruses. He and Harrison then overdubbed backing vocals, and were joined by Starr right at the end of the song. John Lennon did not participate in the recording of ‘Maxwell’s Silver Hammer’.

Towards the end of the session 13 stereo mixes of the song were made.

Last updated: 26 June 2023
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