5 Beatles Songs Fans Didn’t Know That Members Swapped Instruments

The Beatles weren’t just trailblazers in music—they constantly reinvented themselves, including swapping instruments in the studio. Starting with their album Revolver, their experimentation with recording techniques and unconventional roles became part of their creative process. They played with tape loops, and new instruments like the Mellotron and Moog synthesizer, and even switched places on their instruments.

These swaps weren’t just about fun—they often led to some of their most unforgettable moments. Here are five iconic times the Fab Four mixed it up.

“Back in the U.S.S.R.” (The White Album, 1968)
When Ringo Starr briefly quit the band during the recording of this Beach Boys-inspired track, the remaining Beatles had to step in. Paul McCartney laid down a frantic drum track, while John Lennon and George Harrison joined in with extra bass and percussion. Together, they tried to emulate Starr’s signature style. Ringo returned later to find his drum kit lovingly decorated with flowers—an olive branch from his bandmates.

“She Said She Said” (Revolver, 1966)
Inspired by a psychedelic encounter with The Byrds and Peter Fonda, John Lennon penned this trippy track. But behind the scenes, things weren’t so harmonious. A studio argument led to Paul McCartney storming out, leaving George Harrison to record the bass. Harrison rose to the occasion, delivering bass lines reminiscent of McCartney’s signature style, showing his versatility and ability to step up under pressure.

“Here Comes the Sun” (Abbey Road, 1969)
George Harrison’s sunny anthem is one of his most beloved contributions to The Beatles’ catalog. But John Lennon was notably absent from the recording, recovering from a car accident. Harrison took the reins, recording multiple instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, a Moog synthesizer, and a harmonium. Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr contributed on their usual instruments, with McCartney adding gentle backing vocals to round out the track.

“The Ballad of John and Yoko” (1969)
This non-album single was a stripped-down effort featuring just Lennon and McCartney. The duo recorded it while the other two Beatles were unavailable—George Harrison was house-hunting, and Ringo Starr was busy filming The Magic Christian. McCartney played drums, bass, and piano, while Lennon handled guitars and lead vocals. The cheeky banter between them, with Lennon calling McCartney “Ringo” and McCartney replying, “OK, George,” added charm to their final UK No. 1 hit.

“Taxman” (Revolver, 1966)
George Harrison’s biting commentary on the British tax system became a classic opener for Revolver. While Harrison wrote the song, Paul McCartney took on lead guitar duties, crafting a razor-sharp solo inspired by Harrison’s raga influences. The track’s punchy bass line and Lennon’s clever lyric contributions made it a standout—and one of the first hints of the band’s growing individualism.

The Magic of the Fab Four’s Role Swapping

The Beatles’ ability to adapt and experiment with their roles was part of what made them legends. From filling in during absences to flexing their creativity, these moments weren’t just about switching instruments—they were about pushing boundaries and creating timeless music. Whether working as a team or stepping into new roles, The Beatles never stopped reinventing themselves, proving their genius was in their versatility as much as their talent.