Recording, Mixing: Doctor Robert, EMI Studios, Abbey Road

Tuesday 19 April 1966 | Studio, Revolver, The Beatles

On 19 April 1966, The Beatles returned to Studio Two at EMI Studios, Abbey Road, to complete work on ‘Doctor Robert’, a track for their forthcoming album Revolver. The session followed the recording of the backing track on 17 April.

The session ran from 2.30pm until midnight. With the instrumental backing already completed, the focus was on vocal overdubs, which were added throughout the afternoon and evening under the supervision of producer George Martin and engineer Geoff Emerick.

Artificial double tracking (ADT) was applied to the vocals during mixing, enhancing the texture of the final sound. Three mono mixes were created during the session.

The original recording featured the “Well, well, well” section repeated three times. During editing, one repetition was removed, shortening the track by approximately 41 seconds for the final UK release.

A slightly longer mix of ‘Doctor Robert’ was later prepared for the US album Yesterday… And Today, created on 12 May 1966. Stereo mixes for Revolver followed on 20 May 1966.

🎛️ Session Details

• Studio: EMI Studios (Abbey Road), Studio Two
• Producer: George Martin
• Engineer: Geoff Emerick
• Session Time: 2.30pm – midnight
• Work Completed: Vocal overdubs, mono mixing

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FAQ

When was the backing track for ‘Doctor Robert’ recorded?

It was recorded on 17 April 1966, two days before this session.

What was added during this session?

Vocal overdubs were recorded and mono mixes were created.

What is artificial double tracking?

ADT is a studio technique used to thicken vocals by creating a doubled effect without re-recording the part.

Was there a different US version of the song?

Yes. A slightly longer mix appeared on the US album Yesterday… And Today.