One After 909 (Lennon/McCartney)

The oldest Beatles’ song ever recorded, One After 909 is one of the “over 100 songs” that Paul and John claim to have written before landing a recording contract. The song was attempted in 1963, but was dropped by George Martin. It later came up during filming for Get Back/Let It Be as one of many songs from the Beatles’ earlier days dusted off for rehearsals.

Personnel

Let It Be and Let It Be…Naked versions:

• John Lennon – vocals, rhythm guitar
• Paul McCartney – backing vocals, bass guitar
• George Harrison – lead guitar
• Ringo Starr – drums
• Billy Preston – electric piano

Anthology 1 versions:

• John Lennon – lead vocal, rhythm guitar, harmonica
• Paul McCartney – harmony vocal, bass
• George Harrison – lead guitar
• Ringo Starr – drums

Release history

• Let It Be (1970)
• Anthology 1 (1995) [Anthology sequence; take 4 & 5 Anthology edit, recorded 1963]
• Let It Be…Naked (2003) [Let it Be…Naked version]
• Bootleg Recordings 1963 (2014) [takes 1 & 2]
• Anthology Highlights (2011)