John Lennon, known for his candidness and outspoken nature, left no stone unturned when discussing his time in The Beatles.
In numerous interviews, he openly shared his thoughts on the band’s success, his relationship with Paul McCartney, and their extensive discography.
While Lennon had his fair share of disappointments with his own work and the band’s overall output, he also had songs that he held dear and believed stood the test of time.
However, there was one track that evoked feelings of shame within him.
During an interview with Rolling Stone founder Jann Wenner, shortly after leaving The Beatles, Lennon didn’t hold back.
Not only did he speak about his former bandmates, but he also called Mick Jagger a “tart” in response to derogatory comments made by The Rolling Stones frontman about The Beatles from Liverpool.
During the conversation, Wenner presented Lennon with a list of songs that he felt represented the essence of the iconic musician.
Among the songs listed were classics like “Strawberry Fields Forever,” “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” and “I Am The Walrus.”
Lennon readily agreed that these songs captured his character.
However, there was one song on the list that he couldn’t endorse – “It’s Only Love.”
Lennon reflected on the track, expressing his shame towards its “abominable lyrics.”
He revealed that even George Harrison had recently mentioned how they used to cringe when the guitar bit came on, acknowledging that something was off about the song.
Originally titled “That’s A Nice Hat,” “It’s Only Love” appeared on the second side of the Help!
album.
It has never been considered one of the top Beatles favorites.
Lennon’s disdain for the song remained unchanged over the years.
In an interview with David Sheff for All We Are Saying, he described it as a lousy song with abysmal lyrics, expressing his hatred for it.
Paul McCartney also acknowledged the inferior quality of the lyrics in “It’s Only Love.”
In an interview with Barry Miles for Many Years From Now, McCartney admitted that they didn’t fuss too much about filler songs like this one, as they saw them merely as rock ‘n’ roll tunes and not great works of literature.
Indeed, “It’s Only Love” may have its charm and serve as a nostalgic reminder of The Beatles’ pop brilliance.
However, it falls short when compared to their more substantial compositions.
Lennon’s perspective on the song is hard to dispute.
