The legendary songwriter once called a track from Rubber Soul his least favourite, criticising its lyrics and tone.

The Beatles may have shaped the landscape of modern music, but even within their iconic discography, cracks of discontent often appeared. John Lennon, one of the band’s creative pillars, was never shy about voicing his opinions—especially when it came to his own work. Of all the hits and hidden gems the Fab Four produced, one song stood out as Lennon’s least favourite: “Run For Your Life” from the 1965 album Rubber Soul.

Lennon’s disdain for the track ran deep. He once openly admitted, “It’s the one song I wish I’d never written.” The admission highlighted his discomfort with its possessive and threatening lyrics, particularly the line: “I’d rather see you dead, little girl, than to be with another man.” While the phrase was inspired by an Elvis Presley song, Lennon later regretted including such aggressive sentiments in his work.

For a band renowned for pushing boundaries and experimenting with themes, “Run For Your Life” marked a moment that Lennon would later call immature. In interviews during the 1970s, he described the song as “a throwaway track,” underscoring how little regard he had for its place in The Beatles’ illustrious catalogue.

But Lennon’s critiques didn’t stop with “Run For Your Life”. The outspoken artist often directed his sharp commentary toward other Beatles songs, both his own and those of his bandmates. Tracks like “It’s Only Love” from Help! were singled out for their “abysmal lyrics,” while “Sun King” and “Mean Mr. Mustard” from Abbey Road were dismissed as “bits of rubbish.”

Even Paul McCartney, Lennon’s long-time collaborator and occasional rival, wasn’t spared. Lennon infamously labelled McCartney’s more whimsical compositions, such as “When I’m Sixty-Four” and “Rocky Raccoon,” as “granny music,” a jab at their music hall-inspired charm. He also didn’t hold back on songs like “Birthday,” calling it “garbage” in a typically blunt fashion.

Despite his harsh words, Lennon’s self-criticism stood out. Few artists of his stature have spoken so candidly about their own perceived shortcomings. His openness not only added layers to his persona but also revealed the high standards he held for his craft, even if it meant dismantling his past work.

Rubber Soul, often hailed as a pivotal moment in The Beatles’ evolution, was a departure from their early pop sound. Songs like “Norwegian Wood” and “In My Life” showcased introspection and sophistication, but “Run For Your Life” ended the album on a starkly different note. While it fit the rock ‘n’ roll ethos of the era, the lyrics jarred with the rest of the record’s tone.

Fans remain divided over Lennon’s harsh assessment of the track. Some argue that his later statements reflected his evolving maturity and rejection of outdated attitudes, while others contend that the song, despite its problematic lyrics, is a reflection of its time.

Lennon’s critiques also highlight the creative tensions that fuelled The Beatles. McCartney’s melodic optimism often clashed with Lennon’s raw edge, creating a dynamic that birthed some of the most enduring songs in music history. Yet, it also led to disagreements that lingered long after the band’s breakup.

Decades after its release, “Run For Your Life” remains a contentious piece of Beatles lore. For Lennon, it was a misstep he was never afraid to own. For listeners, it serves as a reminder that even the most celebrated artists wrestle with regret and growth.

As The Beatles’ legacy continues to inspire new generations, Lennon’s reflections on his least favourite song offer a glimpse into the complexity behind the music. It wasn’t just about creating hits; it was also about evolving as individuals and artists, sometimes painfully so.