Taxman
The Beatles · Revolver (Remastered) [2009]
Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
Should five percent appear too small
Be thankful I don't take it all
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
If you drive a car, I'll tax the street
If you try to sit, I'll tax your seat
If you get too cold, I'll tax the heat
If you take a walk, I'll tax your feet
Taxman
'Cause I'm the taxman,
Yeah, I'm the taxman
Don't ask me what I want it for (ha ha Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more (ha ha Mr. Heath)
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
Now my advice for those who die
Declare the pennies on your eyes
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
And you're working for no one but me
There's one for you, nineteen for me
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
Should five percent appear too small
Be thankful I don't take it all
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
If you drive a car, I'll tax the street
If you try to sit, I'll tax your seat
If you get too cold, I'll tax the heat
If you take a walk, I'll tax your feet
Taxman
'Cause I'm the taxman,
Yeah, I'm the taxman
Don't ask me what I want it for (ha ha Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more (ha ha Mr. Heath)
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
Now my advice for those who die
Declare the pennies on your eyes
'cause I'm the taxman,
yeah, I'm the taxman
And you're working for no one but me
Taxman
Written by George Harrison and Paul McCartney, "Taxman" stands as a defining track on The Beatles' 1966 album Revolver. The song features a distinctive, repetitive guitar riff that sets a somber, satirical tone, reflecting Harrison's growing interest in social commentary and the complexities of the British tax system. Released during a period of significant artistic evolution for the group, the recording showcases Harrison's mature songwriting abilities and the band's willingness to explore darker, more serious themes beyond their earlier pop-oriented material. Its enduring popularity highlights its status as a classic rock anthem that continues to resonate with listeners decades later.