Ah, take 2
OK!
You say you want a revolution
Well you know
We all want to change the world
You tell me that it’s evolution
Well you know
We all want to change the world
But when you talk about destruction
Don’t you know that you can count me out in
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
You say you got a real solution
Well you know
We’d all love to see the plan
You ask me for a contribution
Well you know
We’re doing what we can
But if you want money for people with minds that hate
All I can tell you is brother you have to wait
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
You say you’ll change the constitution
Well you know
We’d all love to change your head
You tell me it’s the institution
Well you know
You better free your mind instead
But if you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao
You ain’t going to make it with anyone anyhow
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Don’t you know it’s gonna be alright
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Alright, alright, alright, alright, alright
Alright, alright, alright, alright, alright
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Alright, alright, alright
Alright
Alright
Reflecting on Change and Peace
“Revolution 1” by The Beatles stands as a thoughtful meditation on the desire for change and the methods used to achieve it. The lyrics address the tension between radical transformation and peaceful progress, with John Lennon questioning the effectiveness of violent revolution. The repeated reassurance that “it’s gonna be alright” offers a sense of hope and calm, even as the song acknowledges the frustration and urgency felt by those seeking a better world. By drawing a line at destruction and advocating for a change of mind over force, The Beatles deliver a nuanced message about activism, progress, and personal responsibility.
Song Credits
Songwriters: John Lennon, Paul McCartney
Release Year: 1968
Label: Apple Records