I've seen a few lists of favourite Beatle songs on the internet lately, probably because of the iTunes thing, and I thought it might be fun to list a few of my own. Starting at the top: 1. "Hey Jude" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42A0qNayFRE). Why? Because it demonstrates so clearly the two greatest qualities of their musicianship: "heart and timing", in the words of Ringo. And then there's the singing. McCartney's lead is strong and balanced throughout, but the entry of the backups (at 0:45) is, for me, one of the most beautiful moments in their entire recorded output. 2. "Hey Bulldog" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WBelmO65J4). Because I love to hear the Beatles rock. Have you ever noticed that John Lennon is a really good singer? Man! 3. "If I Fell" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ets2eNJzhY). A really adventurous song, harmonically speaking, and beautifully arranged and sung in a way that would have made proud the Everly Brothers. 4. "It Won't Be Long" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5drpgVPusVg). Because I find it the song that best captures the Beatlemania spirit. 5. "Something" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQ5JM0inqGU). Had to get one of George's in there. Check out Ringo's drumming during the bridges. Also, I don't like to disagree with Frank Sinatra, and it was one of his favourites.

OK, that was fun. Five more tomorrow.