On 14 April 1966, The Beatles completed work on Paperback Writer and began recording its groundbreaking B-side, Rain, at EMI Studios, Abbey Road. The session was produced by George Martin and engineered by Geoff Emerick.

Completion of Paperback Writer

Key overdubs between 2:30pm and 7:30pm included:

• Paul McCartney – lead vocals, Rickenbacker bass, additional lead guitar fills
• John Lennon & George Harrison – backing vocals including the iconic Frère Jacques countermelody
• George Martin – piano (via Leslie speaker) and Vox Continental organ

Two mono mixes were created between 7:30pm and 8pm, featuring pronounced tape echo on the chorus vocals.

Early Work on Rain

Following completion of Paperback Writer, the group immediately began recording Rain, laying down five takes of the rhythm track at a faster-than-intended tempo. Geoff Emerick recalled:

“With ‘Rain’ The Beatles played the rhythm track really fast so that when the tape was played back at normal speed everything would be much slower, changing the texture.”

Location

FAQ

What was completed on 14 April 1966?

The Beatles finished recording and mixing Paperback Writer.

What song was started during the session?

The backing track for Rain was recorded.

What makes Rain significant?

It featured innovative tape speed manipulation and the first use of backwards vocals on a Beatles record.

Who produced the session?

George Martin produced it, with Geoff Emerick as engineer.