Taxman
Beatles · Anthology 2
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
Released by The Beatles in 1966, 'Taxman' stands as a defining example of the group's shift toward complex, jazz-influenced rock during their later years. The track features a distinctive, driving rhythm section and a melodic structure that showcases George Harrison's songwriting maturity, moving beyond the pop sensibilities of their earlier work. While often associated with the band's final studio albums, this recording appears on the 'Anthology 2' compilation, reflecting its status as a significant piece of their discography. The song's intricate chord progressions and atmospheric production highlight the Beatles' experimentation with sound and arrangement in the mid-to-late 1960s, cementing their legacy as innovators who pushed the boundaries of rock music.