Question
What was the working title of The Beatles song "Yesterday"?

What was the working title of The Beatles song "Yesterday"?

Last updated: June 18, 2025

Paul McCartney woke up one morning in 1964 with a complete melody that appeared to him in a dream. Unfortunately, the dream didn't come with lyrics and McCartney was on his own. He'd eventually get there, releasing "Yesterday" in 1965, but not before throwing in some placeholder lyrics to make sure he didn't forget the tune. What was his working title for "Yesterday"?

Correct Answer: Scrambled Eggs

(Source)

McCartney's masterpiece started life as "Scrambled Eggs," complete with lyrics about how his girl preferred her breakfast prepared and how much he loved his baby's legs. He spent weeks playing it for other musicians and asking if they recognized it. Nobody did, which meant he could stop panicking about accidentally ripping off some forgotten tune. During the filming of "Help!" in 1965, Paul became so obsessed that director Dick Lester threatened to have the piano removed. When the band finally decided the song needed a proper three-syllable title to replace the breakfast theme, it was John Lennon who suggested "Yesterday." The switch from breakfast comedy to heartbreak ballad happened gradually as McCartney developed the actual lyrics about losing someone he loved, though a Beatles breakfast jingle could've been fun.

Share This Trivia

Want More Nostalgia?

Check out our other quizzes and random trivia questions!