US Single Release: The Long And Winding Road / For You Blue
Although by this time the world knew The Beatles were no more, the final chapter of their chart history in America was extended with the release of a last official single. Issued on Apple Records, The Long And Winding Road backed with For You Blue became a symbolic farewell to one of the most successful recording acts in music history.
Released as Apple 2832, the single arrived in the United States on 11 May 1970 and quickly generated major commercial impact, selling approximately 1.2 million copies in its first two days. It was credited as a double A-side by Billboard and marked The Beatles’ 20th and final number one single in the US.
The record entered the Billboard charts on 23 May 1970 and reached the top position on 13 June, where it remained for two weeks. Despite internal disagreement within the group—particularly Paul McCartney’s dissatisfaction with Phil Spector’s orchestral production—the single was widely received by audiences as a fitting conclusion to The Beatles’ American chart dominance.
At a time when the group had effectively ceased active collaboration, the release reinforced the enduring commercial and cultural weight of their catalogue.
Context
The release of The Long And Winding Road / For You Blue followed the recording sessions for the Let It Be project and preceded the formal public acknowledgment of The Beatles’ breakup. It stands as their final US chart-topping single and a defining endpoint to their extraordinary run of transatlantic success.
FAQs
Was this The Beatles’ final US single?
Yes. It was their last single release to reach number one in the United States.
Which songs were included on the single?
The single featured “The Long And Winding Road” backed with “For You Blue”.
Did it reach number one?
Yes. It topped the Billboard chart on 13 June 1970 for two weeks.
Why is this release historically significant?
It marked The Beatles’ 20th and final US number one single and symbolised the end of their active chart era.
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