FROM THE VAULT: When The Beatles Took on The Who with “Helter Skelter”

On this day in 1962, Ringo Starr played his first show with The Beatles, marking the start of the classic Fab Four lineup. To celebrate, we revisit the wild story behind one of their loudest, most chaotic songs.

After Pete Townshend bragged to Paul McCartney that I Can See for Miles was the dirtiest, loudest rock song ever, Paul took it as a challenge. The Beatles responded with Helter Skelter, pushing their sound to the limit. Ringo played so hard his hands were covered in blisters and blood.

Named after a kids’ ride, the song became a heavy metal precursor—until it was tragically hijacked by Charles Manson.

The full story of a song that rocked the world… next on Professor of Rock.

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