How much music theory did The Beatles know?

Whether The Beatles did or did not know music theory is a hotly contested topic often found in the comments section of Beatles analysis videos. However, on both sides of the argument, trustworthy sources are rarely cited. That is why I decided to scour through the limited literature and first hand accounts that we have in an attempt to shine some light on The Beatles' true relationship with music theory. Sources: Paul’s interview with 60 Minutes (2018) https://twitter.com/i/status/1046561164581359616 Paul’s interview with David Leaf (1990): http://albumlinernotes.com/Paul_McCartney_Comments.html Beatles overdub session 1965: https://youtu.be/CC6uDhjgjFE Howard Goodall on The Beatles (2004): https://youtu.be/ZQS91wVdvYc John Lennon interview with Bob Harris (1975): https://youtu.be/lrRl065BR2w Ringo Starr 'Here Comes The Sun' interview: https://youtu.be/222pq_ueWlM Barry Miles, Many Years From Now (1997) The Beatles Anthology (1995 & 2000) Mark Lewisohn, The Complete Beatles Recording Sessions (1988) Dominic Pedler, The Songwriting Secrets Of The Beatles (2003) Ian MacDonald, Revolution In The Head (1994) An extra special thanks goes to Glen, Vidad Flowers, Christopher Ryan, Bruce Mount, Toot & Paul Peijzel, the channel’s Patreon saints! 😇 SUPPORT ME ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/davidbennettpiano 0:00 Introduction 1:41 Beats and Bars 3:07 Time Signatures 4:51 Chords 8:35 Key changes 11:22 Modes 12:30 Terminology 13:11 George Martin 17:00 Conclusion