Whether The Beatles did or did not know music theory is a hotly contested topic often found in the comments section of Beatles analysis videos. However, on both sides of the argument, trustworthy sources are rarely cited. That is why I decided to scour through the limited literature and first hand accounts that we have in an attempt to shine some light on The Beatles' true relationship with music theory.

Sources:
Paul’s interview with 60 Minutes (2018)   / 1046561164581359616  
Paul’s interview with David Leaf (1990): http://albumlinernotes.com/Paul_McCar...
Beatles overdub session 1965:    • Video  
Howard Goodall on The Beatles (2004):    • The Beatles: a musical appreciation a...  
John Lennon interview with Bob Harris (1975):    • John Lennon on George Martin - (c) BB...  
Ringo Starr 'Here Comes The Sun' interview:    • Making "Here Comes the Sun" by George...  
Barry Miles, Many Years From Now (1997)
The Beatles Anthology (1995 & 2000)
Mark Lewisohn, The Complete Beatles Recording Sessions (1988)
Dominic Pedler, The Songwriting Secrets Of The Beatles (2003)
Ian MacDonald, Revolution In The Head (1994)

An extra special thanks goes to Glen, Vidad Flowers, Christopher Ryan, Bruce Mount, Toot & Paul Peijzel, the channel’s Patreon saints! 😇

SUPPORT ME ON PATREON:   / davidbennettpiano  

0:00 Introduction
1:41 Beats and Bars
3:07 Time Signatures
4:51 Chords
8:35 Key changes
11:22 Modes
12:30 Terminology
13:11 George Martin
17:00 Conclusion