One of the greatest documentaries released last year was, without a doubt, Get Back. The Beatles, even after years and years of their split, can still give any of us creative lessons.

The recording of the band’s sessions took place in the 60s, a decade in which I wasn’t even born yet. It’s impressive for me to be able to see how The Beatles composed their wonderful songs. It means a lot to me to learn more about their creative style, their personalities, and their natural gifts as musicians.

Here’s my list of creative lessons learned:

• Playing is the best way to work

Watching them play with their guitars, piano or drums was like watching kids have fun. Their spontaneity led the way even when they were under pressure to record an album.

At times, they would perform other artists’ songs to take a break and refresh their minds. There was always room for laughs, smiles, and some jokes.

• Exploring one idea from different angles is a must

They never made rushed decisions on the final version of a song. They tried different options and worked on all of them until they were truly satisfied. A creative idea may have true potential if explored from different perspectives.

Magic can happen if you don’t obsess with a single take.

• Having some ideas ready always helps

Paul had a good chunk of Let It Be ready. That means he spent some time working on the song outside the studio and then shared his progress to keep refining it.

In the creative world, not everything happens in an office or in a studio. When you’re on your own, you need to keep ruminating. Process never stops.

• Paul is not dead

This is not exactly a creative lesson, but I couldn’t let this chance pass without mentioning “Paul’s death”. A tremendous talent like his has no match. There’s no way someone else could have composed masterpieces like Let It Be and The Long and Winding Road.

I think the documentary proves any conspiracy theories wrong.

 

What did you learn from The Beatles’ creative process?