Lucinda Williams records Beatles songs at legendary Abbey Road studio

In early 2024, Lucinda Williams, a Nashville-based singer-songwriter, took on a unique challenge by recording an album of Beatles songs in London at the iconic Abbey Road studio, famous for being the site where many Beatles tracks were originally made. She managed to complete the recording within a tight timeframe of just three days, which was planned before her British tour. This album, titled "Lucinda Williams sings the Beatles from Abbey Road," is her first project in the 'Lu's Jukebox' series to be made available on streaming services. For this album, Williams selected 12 songs, primarily focusing on the Beatles' later period, including well-known hits like "Let it Be" and "The Long and Winding Road," alongside more obscure tracks from the "White Album" like "Yer Blues" and "I'm So Tired." Williams expressed her feelings about the pressure of performing the Beatles' catalog, noting the intimidating task of interpreting such well-loved classics. The sessions at Abbey Road were more modern than she anticipated, allowing her to focus on her artistic take rather than being overwhelmed by the studio's historical significance. Williams's approach involved stripping down the songs to their core elements before rebuilding them with her band. This method revealed complex layers of the original songs she found surprising, particularly highlighting the depth of Lennon’s "Yer Blues." She wanted to avoid making the project sound like a standard cover band performance, achieving a balance where her versions remained True to the essence of the originals while showcasing her unique sound. Prior to this Beatles album, Williams had produced six themed concert projects during the pandemic, which she sold through mail order. These prior works, consisting of varying song themes, including Rolling Stones tracks, showcased her versatility as an artist. Although they were not initially available for streaming, there is a possibility that they may be offered on streaming services in the future. Williams's recent work not only challenges her as an artist but also serves to connect her with a legacy that resonates deeply with music lovers around the world.