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Released in 1964

Mr. Moonlight

Written by Roy Lee Johnson

Last updated on March 12, 2016

Album This song officially appears on the Beatles For Sale (Mono) LP.

Timeline This song was officially released in 1964

Master album

Related sessions

This song was recorded during the following studio sessions:

From Wikipedia:

“Mr. Moonlight” is a song written by Roy Lee Johnson, best known for being covered by the Beatles on the 1964 albums Beatles for Sale in the United Kingdom and Beatles ’65 in the United States.

Different versions

The first known recording of the song was by blues pianist Piano Red, recording as “Dr. Feelgood and the Interns“. It was released as a B-side of a minor rhythm & blues hit single (titled “Dr. Feelgood“) in 1962. The record became something of a cult favorite among several young British R&B enthusiasts, some of whom would soon go on to become members of well-known bands.

Another emerging beat group, The Hollies, recorded and released their own performance of the same song nearly simultaneously with the Beatles’ version. […]

The Beatles’ version

The Beatles had covered the song in their live act for years before it appeared on record. Their recording features Latin-style percussion, prominent vocal harmonies, and, unusually, an organ solo. John Lennon sings lead, with backing vocals from Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

The Beatles recorded this song two different days in 1964. The first day was August 14, where they recorded four takes (one and four of which appear on Anthology 1). They recorded again on October 18, again in four takes, the last two of which showcased McCartney on Hammond organ.

From The Usenet Guide to Beatles Recording Variations:

  • [a] mono 27 Oct 1964.
    UK: Parlophone PMC 1240 For Sale 1964.
    US: Capitol T 2228 Beatles ’65 1964.
    CD: EMI CDP 7 46438 2 For Sale 1987.
  • [b] stereo [4 Nov 1964 – Edit].
    UK: Parlophone PCS 3062 For Sale 1964.
    US: Capitol ST 2228 Beatles ’65 1964.

[a] fades a little earlier.

Lyrics

Mr. Moonlight!

You came to me one summer night

And from your beam you made my dream

And from the world you sent my girl

And from above you sent us love

And now she is mine, I think you're fine

'Cause we love you Mr. Moonlight

Mr. Moonlight, come again please

Here I am on my knees begging if you please

And the night you don't come my way

I pray and pray more each day

'Cause we love you Mr. Moonlight

And the night you don't come my way

Oh I pray and pray more each day

'Cause we love you Mr. Moonlight

Mr. Moonlight, come again please

Here I am on my knees begging if you please

And the night you don't come my way

Oh I pray and pray more each day

'Cause we love you Mr. Moonlight

Mr. Moonlight

Mr. Moonlight

Mr. Moonlight

Officially appears on

See all official recordings containing “Mr. Moonlight”

Bootlegs

See all bootlegs containing “Mr. Moonlight”

Live performances

“Mr. Moonlight” has been played in 1 concerts.

Latest concerts where “Mr. Moonlight” has been played

Going further

Paul McCartney writing

Talk more talk, chat more chat

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