On This Day in 1968: The Beatles Debut “Lady Madonna” Video on Top of the Pops Using Footage from “Hey Bulldog”
via Elena the Beatles photos / YouTube
On March 14, 1968, The Beatles showcased their new single “Lady Madonna” on the UK television program Top of the Pops. Instead of a traditional performance, they presented a promotional film that featured footage from the recording session of “Hey Bulldog,” a track yet to be released. This creative approach not only highlighted their music but also offered fans a glimpse into their studio dynamics.
Recording “Hey Bulldog”
The promotional film was shot on February 11, 1968, at EMI Studios in London. Initially intended to depict the band miming “Lady Madonna,” The Beatles chose to utilize the time to record “Hey Bulldog.” This decision resulted in authentic footage capturing their collaborative process. The film shows them playing their instruments, sharing ideas, and enjoying the creative process, providing fans with a rare look into their recording sessions.
“Lady Madonna” was released in the UK on March 15, 1968, the day after its debut on Top of the Pops. The single quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart for two weeks starting March 27. In the United States, it peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 by mid-April. This success demonstrated The Beatles’ continued popularity and their ability to innovate in both music and promotion.
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Promotional Film Details
The promotional film for “Lady Madonna” was directed by Tony Bramwell. It featured The Beatles recording “Hey Bulldog,” with little attempt to synchronize the footage with the “Lady Madonna” audio. In one clip, George Harrison is seen eating a plate of beans, while other scenes show Ringo Starr listening to playbacks and the band members playing instruments different from those heard in the song. This unconventional approach added a playful and candid feel to the promotional material.
“Hey Bulldog” remained unreleased at the time of the promotional film’s debut. It was later included in the Yellow Submarine animated film and its soundtrack. In 1999, the original footage from the 1968 recording session was re-edited by Apple to create a new music video for “Hey Bulldog,” coinciding with the reissue of the Yellow Submarine film. This re-edited version provided fans with a clearer view of the band’s interaction during the recording.
Impact on Music Promotion
The Beatles’ use of a promotional film featuring “Hey Bulldog” footage for “Lady Madonna” exemplified their innovative approach to music promotion. By offering fans an inside look at their recording process, they set a precedent for future artists to create engaging promotional content that goes beyond traditional performances. This strategy not only promoted their single but also strengthened their connection with their audience.
The decision to use behind-the-scenes footage in their promotional material has influenced countless artists in the decades since. Modern musicians often release studio session videos, documentaries, and other content that provides fans with an intimate look at their creative processes. The Beatles’ approach to the “Lady Madonna” promotional film can be seen as a precursor to these contemporary practices.
