Original Version Recorded 28–29 April; 6 June 1966
Ukulele Version #62Recorded July 29 2009
Rhe De Ville: Vocals
Mike Leslie: Ukulele
David Barratt: Everything else
Produced by David Barratt at The Abattoir Of Good Taste – Fort Greene Brooklyn
Video produced and directed by Rhe De Ville
Written by Paul McCartney
Credited to Lennon & McCartney
ABOUT THE SONG
Eleanor Rigby is a masterpiece by Paul McCartney and credited to Lennon/McCartney. Despite the credits the song also benefited from the input of many others.
George came up with the lyric “Look at all the lonely people”. Ringo, in am moment of rare genius said that the male character could be “darning his sock’s” to imply loneliness. Donavon is said to have added a line or two. Pete Shotton, who was a boyhood friend of Ringo suggested that the male and female characters could meet in the last verse as Father McKenzie buries Eleanor Rigby.
George Martin could also be said to be a co-writer of the song. "Eleanor Rigby" could be arranged in a million ways, but Martin’s contribution goes beyond mere orchestration, and is truly an integral part of the message of the original.
Of course Paul being the smart businessman did not credit or share royalties with anyone except John.
Greedy? Bastard? Genius?
You choose.
The ukulele version of Eleanor Rigby features the exquisite 72 year old Rhe De Ville who, unlike Eleanor Rigby or you, has never been, and never will be, lonely.
Through a series of unfortunate accidents she now is in control of approximately 650 billion Dollars worth of international banking assets including the threadbare apartment that you now inhabit.
She is surrounded by beautiful accountants and and cunning courtesans who cater to her every need.
In an attempt to currie favour with the less fortunate she has taken to create a video series depicting the struggles of an artist in the modern world.
CLICK HERE
Do not be fooled.
She cares nothing for you.
Her third husband died 45 minutes ago in a delightful baccarat accident which left her in control of his "International Infinite Cancer Care (TM) Centres” which, if you are wealthy enough, your grandmother is now quietly leaving this world in a moment of John Holmes-like ecstasy
Love her.
You have no choice.
A WORD FROM THE ARTIST
The video was inspired by many close to me who deal with isolation and depression. Both take on many colors, levels, and play no favourites. I dedicate this piece to those who feel very much alone in their loneliness and realize, even if in some small way, that they, in fact, have company.
I filmed all the interior and church shots and asked my friend, filmmaker (and neighbor) Patrick Kendall, to walk with me on a very gray Monday afternoon in Central Park.
And a small note of trivia, I was blessed to have the role of Father MacKenzie, or rather ‘MacLeod’ (as in my pal Kevin) write the words of a sermon that no one will hear.
http://www.rhedeville.com
