Helter Skelter (Beatles cover)

Boy, I couldn't disagree with people more here. The Beatles original version is far more intense and powerful than U2's on "Rattle and Hum." I very often skip this song when I listen to R&H, partially because of Bono screwing up the lyrics, and partially because The Edge simplifies the guitar too much. I love how big the sound is on The White Album, it's very thing and plain here.

this is the tightest cover of helter skelter ive ever heard

Yeah, they did do it pretty well. I love that part in Rattle and Hum, where Bono says, "This song Charles Manson stole from the Beatles....we're stealing it back," and then it starts....it's awesome

This song means U2 to me. This is the song that started me as a U2 fan at the age of 3. Thought I'd put my first comment on the song that got me hooked.

Damn. U2 is still numero uno after all these years. Even after they turned pop in the mid 90's they still have menaingful lyrics. And they know how to steal thunder like no one else. This version beats Jimi Hendrix' in a heartbeat, BTW.

Peace

Great cover, only problem with it is the lyrical mistake Bono makes, "You ain't no lover but you ain't no dancer". This must have been a mistake, if he had intended tp change the lyrics, surely he would have taken the word 'bu't out, and replaced it with 'and'. Nonetheless, great cover. Haven't heard the Hendrix version, didn't know there was one until now. I'll check it out.

This song is so awesome! I Iove it! I love u2! "This is a song Charles Manson stole from the Beatles. We're stealing it back." kick ass!

I heard this song on the Rattle and Hum cd before I ever heard the original. Now for some reason I don't really like the original... When I heard the original for the first time a few months ago I was disapointed because I guess I was expecting it to sound like this version. I don't really know why that is, that I like this better, it might be because I'm more used to Bonos voice, which is strange because I was raised on the Beatles... In any case I'd prefer to listen to this cover than to listen to the original. I agree the opening line is awesome.

I don't know if these lyrics are incorrect or if I just can't hear worth a damn, but I could have sworn the line Bono actually sang was "You may be a lover but you ain't no dancer". Maybe someone can clear me up on that...

Anyhoo, I definately think this cover packs a hell of a lot more punch than The Beatles' version. That also could be largely fueled by Helter Skelter having become synonymous with Charles Manson throughout the years. Aside from that though, U2's version is a lot more solid and edgy. Bono's vocal tone is perfect in setting the mood for the amped-up music. It's like the entire band is exploding with energy. This is the kind of piece that makes people sing at the top of their lungs in the car/office/shower/etc. :P

Oops, excuse me. I meant, "it's very thin and plain here."