Ticket 2 Ride

The most successful of the artists signed to the Beatles’ Apple Records. Badfinger’s tale is bittersweet, so much talent, managed and mismanaged. Caught up in the Beatles’ dissolution and later legal battles with their crooked manager and new label, Warner Bros. Records.

These five songs are among the gems that Badfinger released. Instead of the tragedy, enjoy their fresh, vibrant power-pop sound.

“Maybe Tomorrow” (1969) Back when they were known as The Iveys. This song was recorded by The Iveys’ debut album, released as a single, then re-released on the Magic Christian Music album under Badfinger name. The song got the full orchestral production by Tony Visconti. Bass player Ron Griffiths would leave the band and replaced by guitarist Joey Molland (guitarist Tom Evans move to bass). Evans wrote and sang lead on this song. It’s quite a nice ballad.

“Come and Get It” (1970) Sir Paul McCartney wrote this song for Badfinger, who had been signed to Apple Records. McCartney also produced it, instructing the band to play it precisely as McCartney had recorded the demo. The song was used for the film, Magic Christian, starring Peter Sellers and Ringo Starr. A top ten hit around the world. Evans singing lead.

“No Matter What” (1970) Written by guitarist Pete Ham who also sang lead vocals. Ham’s songs often had the distinctive power chord construction and descending notes. The harmony vocals are Beatlesque in their stacking. Mal Evans first recognized The Iveys and he was given the opportunity to work with them on the No Dice album. This song was remixed by Beatles engineer Geoff Emerick, even though Evans got the production credit.

“Day After Day” (1971) Written and sung by Ham. The production on this album, Straight Up, is rather complicated. Geoff Emerick, Todd Rundgren and George Harrison all worked on this album at various points. Songs were initially recorded with Emerick, but put aside as the recording sessions were rushed and scheduled around touring obligations. Then Harrison worked with the band and tweaked arrangements. He left to produce the Concert for Bangladesh, turning the project over to Rundgren. Harrison worked with Ham on arranging this song and played slide guitar on it. A top ten hit and gold record. I’d say this is the best song Badfinger ever released and the guitar work a stellar effort.

“Sweet Tuesday Morning” Written and sung by Joey Molland, this sweet ballad shows the sensitive and reflective side of the band’s writing and performance. Production credit to Rundgren, but the song was worked in other recording sessions. Molland passed away earlier this year, the last surviving member of the Badfinger band that recorded for Apple Records.