Good news for Beatlemaniacs on Tuesday (July 24): An entirely new compilation album, Tomorrow Never Knows, has hit iTunes.
The compilation plays up the rock aspect of the Fab Four's rock and roll legacy and features 14 of their "most powerful rock songs" like "Back in the USSR," "Helter Skelter," "Paperback Writer" and "Revolution." In addition to the album, available exclusively on iTunes, fans can download or stream a promo film called "Hey Bulldog" in support of the release, which is available for free.
Another bonus element attached to the news is a passionate, self-reflective note from Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl about the indelible impact the band had in inspiring Grohl to become a musician. We've seen Grohl and the Foos demonstrate their love for the Beatles before, but there's something extra-special in the words the Grammy winner composed for the occasion.
"If it weren't for The Beatles, I would not be a musician. It's as simple as that," Grohl wrote. "From a very young age I became fascinated with their songs, and over the years have drowned myself in the depth of their catalogue. Their groove and their swagger. Their grace and their beauty. Their dark and their light. The Beatles seemed to be capable of anything. They knew no boundaries, and in that freedom they seemed to define what we now know today as 'Rock and Roll.' "
Grohl went on to reveal that he recently introduced his 6-year-old daughter Violet to the Fab Four via "Yellow Submarine" and shared his pride and joy over the fact that Violet's favorite track is "Hey Bulldog."
" 'Hey Bulldog' is not one of The Beatles' greatest hits. It's what most people would consider a 'deep cut.' But it is a quintessential Beatles rocker," he write. "The rolling bass line, the trademark Ringo drum fills, the gritty distorted guitar, and that sound that only the back of Lennon's throat could produce. It stomps. It grooves. It makes your head bob. It makes your hips shake. When Lennon sings, 'If you're lonely you can talk to me!' it soothes your heart, like you've finally found something to believe in. It's so raw and real. It is 100% timeless Rock and Roll. ... From one generation to the next, The Beatles will remain the most important rock band of all time."