Recorded: 15, 16, 18 July 1968
Producer: George Martin
Engineers: Geoff Emerick, Ken Scott

Released: 22 November 1968 (UK), 25 November 1968 (US)

Available on:
The Beatles (White Album)
Anthology 3

Personnel

John Lennon: vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, organ
Paul McCartney: bass
George Harrison: lead guitar
Ringo Starr: drums, tambourine
George Martin: harmonium

Cry Baby Cry is a song by the English rock band the Beatles from their 1968 double album The Beatles (also known as the “White Album”). It was written by John Lennon and credited to the Lennon–McCartney partnership. The coda of the song is a short segment referred to as “Can You Take Me Back”, written by Paul McCartney, which was actually an outtake from the “I Will” session. [Image of The Beatles’ Cry Baby Cry song cover]

The song is a psychedelic ballad with a simple, repetitive melody and lyrics. The lyrics tell the story of a child who is crying uncontrollably. The narrator tries to comfort the child, but the child cannot be consoled. The song has been interpreted as a metaphor for Lennon’s own childhood, which was marked by poverty, neglect, and abuse.

Cry Baby Cry was recorded in July 1968 at EMI Studios in London. The song was produced by George Martin and engineered by Geoff Emerick. The song features acoustic guitar, piano, organ, and percussion. Ringo Starr’s drumming on the song is particularly notable, with its use of complex rhythms and fills.

The song was released on The Beatles on 22 November 1968. It was not released as a single, but it has been covered by many other artists, including Elton John, David Bowie, and Tom Petty.

Cry Baby Cry is a haunting and atmospheric song that showcases the Beatles’ experimental side. It is a song that has resonated with listeners for generations.