“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something wonderfully rebellious about Status Quo’s take on “Getting Better.” While many know this as a Beatles classic from their groundbreaking “Sgt. Pepper” album, Quo managed to transform it into something distinctly their own—injecting it with their signature no-nonsense boogie rock energy that fans came to love.
This cover perfectly captures the fascinating evolution of Status Quo as a band. Remember, these weren’t always the denim-clad rockers we came to know! They started in the psychedelic 60s with hits like “Pictures of Matchstick Men” before completely reinventing themselves. By the time they recorded “Getting Better,” they had fully embraced their stripped-down, heads-down, no-nonsense rock approach that would define their career.
What makes their version special is how they maintain the optimistic spirit of the original while giving it that unmistakable Quo treatment—driving rhythm, twin guitar attack, and straightforward delivery. The song’s message of personal growth and improvement (“I used to get mad at my school… Got to admit it’s getting better”) takes on a different flavor when delivered with Quo’s working-class authenticity.
This track represents everything that made Status Quo beloved by fans but often dismissed by critics—their ability to take something familiar and transform it through sheer energy and conviction. While they may never have conquered America like some of their contemporaries, their influence on British rock is undeniable. “Getting Better” showcases a band that knew exactly who they were and played to their strengths without apology.
Video
Lyrics
I used to get mad at my school
The teachers that taught me weren’t cool
Holding me down, and turning me round
Filling me up with your rules
Got to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better all the time
Have to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better, since you’ll be mine
I used to be angry young man
Me hiding me head in the sand
You gave me the word, I finally heard
I’m doing the best that I can
Got to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better all the time
Have to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better, since you’ll be mine
Getting so much better all the time
It’s getting better all the time, better, better, better
It’s getting better all the time, better, better, better
I used to be cruel to my woman, I beat her
And kept her apart from the things that she loved
Man I was mean but I’m changing my scene
And I’m doing the best that I can
Got to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better all the time
Have to admit it’s getting better
It’s getting better, since you’ll be mine
Getting so much better all the time