Mellotron

 What “Strawberry Fields Forever” and “Daniel” Have in Common?

Although released seven years apart — “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles in 1967 and “Daniel” by Elton John in 1973 — these two songs share a unique characteristic: both use the Mellotron in their introductions, giving them a distinct and innovative sound for their respective eras.

What is the Mellotron?

The Mellotron is a polyphonic electro-mechanical instrument developed in the early 1960s in Birmingham, England. Unlike modern synthesizers, the Mellotron reproduces pre-recorded sounds stored on magnetic tapes. Each key on the keyboard triggers a specific tape, allowing the reproduction of instruments such as flutes, strings, and brass.

The Beatles’ Impact

The Beatles were pioneers in using the Mellotron in popular music. On “Strawberry Fields Forever,” it was John Lennon, not Paul McCartney, who had the idea to use the Mellotron to create the iconic flute introduction. This sonic innovation drew the attention of musicians and producers at the time, popularizing the instrument’s use in subsequent recordings.
Elton John and the Mellotron

Elton John incorporated the Mellotron into several of his compositions, adding unique textures to his music. Here are tracks with confirmed Mellotron use:

1. Daniel (1973)

The Mellotron is used to create the flute effect in the introduction and throughout the song.

2. This Song Has No Title (1973)

Features a combination of flute and orchestral strings generated by the Mellotron.

3. Grey Seal (1973)

Uses the Mellotron to create background string chords.

4. Dirty Little Girl (1973)

Includes brass chords generated by the Mellotron.

5. Island Girl (1975)

The Mellotron is used to create flute effects in the song.

6. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)

The Mellotron is used on several tracks from the album, including the title track.

7. Crocodile Rock (1972)

The Mellotron is used to create background effects in the song.

8. Little Jeannie (1980)

The Mellotron is used to create background effects in the song.

9. Rocket Man (1972)

The Mellotron is used to create background effects in the song.

10. Mellow (1972)

The Mellotron is used to create background effects in the song.

These tracks demonstrate the versatility of the Mellotron in Elton John’s music, adding unique textures to his compositions.

Other Artists and the Mellotron

In addition to The Beatles and Elton John, many other artists and bands have adopted the Mellotron in their productions:

The Moody Blues – “Nights in White Satin”

King Crimson – “Epitaph”

Genesis – “Watcher of the Skies”

Yes – “Close to the Edge”

The Zombies – “Changes”

Rick Wakeman – in his solo works and with Yes

David Bowie – “Space Oddity”

Black Sabbath – “Changes”

Radiohead – “OK Computer”

Oasis – “Wonderwall”

The Mellotron in the Digital Era

Modern Mellotrons have digital versions that emulate classic sounds, allowing contemporary musicians to explore its unique timbres:

Mellotron M4000D

Arturia Mellotron V

GForce M-Tron Pro IV

Contemporary Artists Using the Mellotron

The Mellotron continues to inspire contemporary musicians. Some artists who have incorporated the Mellotron or its digital versions in their work include:

Sarah Davachi – Uses the Mellotron on her albums Let Night Come on Bells End the Day (2018) and Antiphonals (2021), creating meditative and minimalist atmospheres.

Anton Barbeau – American singer-songwriter who uses the Mellotron in his productions, combining psychedelic pop influences with the instrument.

The Flaming Lips – Incorporated the Mellotron in various productions, adding psychedelic textures to their songs.

Tame Impala – Uses the Mellotron on some tracks, giving a retro and psychedelic sound to their compositions.

These artists show that the Mellotron, whether in its original or digital form, remains a creative tool in contemporary music.