Tone Profile

Bright and bluesy harmonica tone with a raw and slightly overdriven quality. It's iconic, simple, and full of character, providing a memorable hook in the song.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The harmonica was played by John Lennon in early recordings, and later by harmonica virtuoso Andy White.
• The AKG D19c was a common microphone used by EMI at Abbey Road Studios during that era, known for its clear and present sound.
• The harmonica sound was likely captured live in the studio, possibly with minimal processing.

Recreation Tips

• Use a Hohner Marine Band harmonica in the key of G or C, depending on the key of the song.
• Cup the harmonica in your hands to control the tone and create a slightly overdriven sound.
• Use a dynamic microphone like an AKG D19c or Shure SM57, positioning it close to the harmonica.
• Record in a moderately reverberant space to capture some natural ambience.
• Consider adding a touch of compression to even out the dynamics and add sustain.
• Experiment with slight overdrive or saturation to emulate the raw tone.

Recommended Gear

• Hohner Marine Band Harmonica(instrument)
• AKG D19c(mic)
• Shure SM57(mic)