George Harrison, often referred to as the “Quiet Beatle,” was far from silent when it came to his musical contributions. While overshadowed at times by the prolific songwriting partnership of John Lennon and Paul McCartney within The Beatles, Harrison cultivated a unique and profound voice that resonated throughout his career, both within the iconic band and as a celebrated solo artist. His songs, marked by spiritual depth, melodic richness, and insightful lyrics, have solidified his place as one of the most gifted songwriters of his generation.
Navigating the landscape of The Beatles, it’s clear Harrison faced an uphill battle to have his compositions recognized alongside the Lennon-McCartney juggernaut. Yet, as Bob Dylan aptly observed, “George got stuck with being the Beatle that had to fight to get songs on records because of Lennon and McCartney. Well, who wouldn’t get stuck?” This struggle, however, ultimately fueled Harrison’s creative drive, leading to an outpouring of remarkable music once the constraints of the band dissolved. Whether crafting introspective ballads or upbeat rock anthems, Harrison’s songwriting consistently delivered a distinctive blend of musical sophistication and heartfelt emotion.
This article delves into 20 of the finest Songs By George Harrison, spanning his groundbreaking work with The Beatles and his critically acclaimed solo journey. These selections showcase the breadth of his talent, highlighting his evolution from a guitarist finding his songwriting footing to a confident and masterful composer in his own right. From spiritual reflections to social commentary, each song reveals a facet of Harrison’s multifaceted musical personality and enduring artistic legacy.
George Harrison close-up.
20. ‘Bangla Desh’
Beyond his songwriting prowess, George Harrison demonstrated a profound humanitarian spirit. ‘Bangla Desh’ stands as a testament to this, not just as a song, but as the catalyst for the groundbreaking Concert For Bangladesh, the first large-scale benefit concert in rock history. Released as a single in 1971, ‘Bangla Desh’ served as both a fundraising effort and a poignant cry for awareness about the devastating humanitarian crisis in war-torn Bangladesh.
The raw energy and urgency of the track reflect the dire situation it addressed. It was a departure from much of his earlier work, directly confronting global issues and showcasing Harrison’s willingness to use his platform for social good. Coming hot on the heels of The Beatles’ breakup, ‘Bangla Desh’ satisfied a fanbase eager for new music and solidified Harrison’s position as a solo artist with a powerful message. The song climbed into the top 30 charts, further amplifying the reach and impact of his historic concert.
19. ‘Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)’
As the tumultuous era of The Beatles concluded, George Harrison’s spiritual journey deepened, profoundly influencing his songwriting. ‘Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)’, from his 1973 album Living In A Material World, is a quintessential example of this spiritual exploration. The album title itself, a playful nod to Madonna’s later hit, signaled Harrison’s immersion in Hinduism and his quest for inner peace amidst the “craziness” of his past fame.
“Give Me Love” functions as a mantra, a heartfelt prayer set to music. Harrison himself described it as “a prayer and personal statement between me, the Lord, and whoever likes it.” Its gentle melody, simple structure, and enriching lyrics create an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion. The song’s universal message of love and peace resonated widely, becoming a signature track that embodies Harrison’s spiritual and musical ethos.
18. ‘It’s All Too Much’
‘It’s All Too Much’, featured on The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine soundtrack, offers a glimpse into Harrison’s psychedelic explorations and his ability to translate complex experiences into accessible music. He once described the song’s origins, stating it was “written in a childlike manner from realisations that appeared during and after some LSD experiences and which were later confirmed in meditation.”
Despite its placement relatively low on this list, “It’s All Too Much” exemplifies Harrison’s songwriting versatility. While hinting at the spiritual themes that would become prominent in his later work, the song embraces a psychedelic soundscape with swirling instrumentation and echoing vocals. Its nursery rhyme-like quality, paradoxically, amplifies the psychedelic intensity, creating a disorienting yet captivating sonic experience. The track stands as a testament to Harrison’s experimental side within the Beatles framework.
17. ‘Simply Shady’
Reflecting on George Harrison’s discography reveals recurring themes of spirituality, love, and human compassion. However, ‘Simply Shady’, from his Dark Horse album, delves into a more somber and confessional territory, exploring the darker aspects of the rock and roll lifestyle. Harrison himself described the track as depicting “what happens to naughty boys in the music business,” revealing a candid self-awareness and vulnerability.
“Simply Shady” emerged from a particularly turbulent period in Harrison’s life. He was grappling with a cocaine addiction, his spiritual equilibrium was disrupted, and his marriage to Patti Boyd was unraveling amidst her affair with Eric Clapton. The song encapsulates these raw emotions and personal struggles, channeling them into a confessional narrative. Its bluesy undertones and introspective lyrics offer a starkly honest portrayal of inner turmoil, making it a compellingly raw and relatable track.
16. ‘The Inner Light’
Another of Harrison’s deeply spiritual compositions, ‘The Inner Light’ draws inspiration not from Indian philosophy, but from the Taoist text Tao Te Ching. Released as the B-side to the upbeat ‘Lady Madonna’, “The Inner Light” provided a contrasting and contemplative counterpoint.
This song holds a special place within the Harrison family. Years later, his son Dhani re-recorded “The Inner Light” to commemorate the launch of the George Harrison Material World Foundation, which donated significantly to the MusicCares COVID-19 fund. Harrison’s widow, Olivia, highlighted the song’s enduring message of hope and connection, stating, “These lyrics sung by George are a positive reminder to all of us who are isolating, quarantined or respecting the request to stay in our homes. Let’s get and stay connected at this difficult time. There are things we can do to help and we invite you to share your Inner Light.” The song’s gentle wisdom and timeless message continue to resonate.
15. ‘Piggies’
While George Harrison sought inner peace, he was also keenly observant of the world around him, and unafraid to express his social and political viewpoints in his music. Songs like ‘Taxman’ and ‘Piggies’, both penned in 1966, although ‘Piggies’ found its release later on The White Album, exemplify this critical perspective.
Harrison described ‘Piggies’ as “a social comment.” The song satirizes greed and societal excess, using pig imagery to represent those consumed by material desires. A memorable and somewhat darkly humorous line, “What they need is a damn good whacking,” was contributed by Harrison’s mother, adding a touch of British colloquialism to the song’s satirical edge. Despite its seemingly playful tone, “Piggies” delivers a sharp critique of societal ills, showcasing Harrison’s capacity for pointed social commentary within his songwriting.
14. ‘Got My Mind Set On You’
In 1987, George Harrison returned to the charts with the infectious hit ‘Got My Mind Set On You’, featured on his chart-topping album Cloud Nine. While a cover song, originally written by Rudy Clark, Harrison infused it with his own distinctive style and energy, propelling it to widespread popularity.
“Got My Mind Set On You” marked Harrison’s successful comeback after a five-year hiatus from releasing albums. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Harrison’s warm vocal delivery made it an instant crowd-pleaser. While perhaps not as deeply profound as some of his other works, its undeniable charm and feel-good vibe have ensured its enduring presence, particularly at celebratory occasions like weddings. The song’s sheer joyfulness and Harrison’s spirited performance make it a timelessly enjoyable track.
13. ‘Wah Wah’
‘Wah Wah’ stands as a powerful declaration of independence and a sonic representation of George Harrison’s frustrations within The Beatles. Written and recorded shortly after his temporary departure from the band during the Let It Be sessions, the song is a raw and cathartic expression of his pent-up emotions.
Harrison recounted the song’s origins, stating, “At that point in time, Paul couldn’t see beyond himself… He wasn’t sensitive to stepping on other people’s egos or feelings.” “Wah Wah” was, in part, a direct response to these tensions. While the title alludes to the guitar effects pedal, Harrison later admitted in his autobiography I, Me, Mine that it also symbolized the feeling of “You’re giving me a bloody headache,” directed at his bandmates. The song’s driving rhythm, distorted guitars, and Harrison’s impassioned vocals convey a sense of liberation and defiance, marking a pivotal moment in his artistic self-assertion.
12. ‘Think For Yourself’
Even early in his Beatles career, George Harrison’s songwriting demonstrated a contemplative depth that set him apart. ‘Think For Yourself’, released on the Rubber Soul album, while perhaps less celebrated than some of his later masterpieces, is nonetheless a crucial early example of his emerging songwriting prowess and his inclination towards thought-provoking themes.
“Think For Yourself” encourages independent thought and challenges conformity, themes that would resonate throughout Harrison’s solo work. While Harrison himself jokingly suggested the government might have been the inspiration, the song is often interpreted as one of the first “break-up” songs not about romantic love, but about disillusionment and the need for self-reliance. Its somewhat cynical lyrics, unusual for The Beatles at the time, and its driving, slightly dissonant musical arrangement, marked a departure from typical pop conventions and highlighted Harrison’s willingness to explore more complex emotional landscapes in his songwriting.
11. ‘I Me Mine’
‘I Me Mine’ holds a unique place in Beatles history as the last song they ever worked on together, captured in the Let It Be film. Filmed at Abbey Road Studios in early 1970, the recording session represents a fleeting moment of unity amidst the band’s impending dissolution.
Lyrically, however, “I Me Mine” reflects the growing ego clashes and tensions within the group, a stark contrast to the outward display of harmony during the recording session. The song’s waltz-time signature and introspective lyrics convey a sense of melancholy and resignation. It serves as a poignant and somewhat ironic final statement from The Beatles, encapsulating both their musical brilliance and the personal conflicts that ultimately led to their separation.
10. ‘Isn’t It A Pity’
The enduring quality of a song can often be gauged by the artists who choose to interpret it. ‘Isn’t It A Pity’, a deeply moving track from Harrison’s All Things Must Pass album, has been covered by numerous acclaimed musicians, most notably Nina Simone, a testament to its profound emotional resonance and melodic beauty.
“Isn’t It A Pity” explores themes of compassion, empathy, and the human condition. Its laconic melody and heartfelt lyrics guide listeners through a spiritual reflection on the importance of kindness and understanding in a world often marked by suffering. The song was among those Harrison had offered to The Beatles but were ultimately rejected, highlighting the band’s missed opportunity and underscoring the wealth of material Harrison had accumulated. Its inclusion on All Things Must Pass became one of the album’s most poignant and enduring moments.
9. ‘What is Life’
While perhaps not as immediately iconic as ‘All Things Must Pass’, ‘What is Life’ from the same album, became a significant hit in 1971 and has enjoyed continued popularity through its use in various films and television shows. Its uplifting and universally relatable message of human connection makes it a perennial favorite.
“What is Life” seems deceptively simple in its construction, yet beneath its surface lies a sophisticated arrangement with layers of intricate instrumentation that coalesce into a seamless and powerful sonic experience. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke feelings of warmth, optimism, and hope. It exemplifies Harrison’s skill in crafting songs that are both musically sophisticated and emotionally accessible, contributing to its lasting freshness and appeal across generations.
8. ‘I’d Have You Anytime’
‘I’d Have You Anytime’ holds a special significance as a collaboration between George Harrison and Bob Dylan, marking Dylan’s sole co-writing credit on All Things Must Pass. The song emerged from a session where Harrison sought to discover his own distinct “voice” as a solo artist, and Dylan’s presence proved to be both encouraging and creatively fruitful.
Harrison recalled the songwriting session in his autobiography, noting Dylan’s initial nervousness that gradually eased as they began playing guitars together. “I’d Have You Anytime” embodies a spirit of gentle invitation and heartfelt sincerity. Its understated beauty and Dylan’s co-authorship made it a significant track for Harrison, who fittingly chose it as the opening song for All Things Must Pass. The song’s quiet strength and collaborative genesis underscore Harrison’s growing confidence and artistic independence.
7. ‘Within You Without You’
The Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, often perceived as primarily a Paul McCartney project, was not always a comfortable creative space for George Harrison. He described the recording process as feeling like an “assembly process” with less emphasis on band collaboration, which clashed with his burgeoning spiritual interests, particularly after his six-week immersion in India.
Despite these creative tensions, Harrison contributed one of Sgt. Pepper’s most distinctive and groundbreaking tracks, ‘Within You Without You’. Deeply influenced by Eastern musical traditions and philosophical concepts, the song is a pioneering fusion of Western pop and Indian classical music. Recorded largely by Harrison alone in London, without the other Beatles, “Within You Without You” foreshadowed his future solo direction and stands as a testament to his artistic vision and his commitment to incorporating his spiritual beliefs into his music.
6. ‘My Sweet Lord’
‘My Sweet Lord’ stands as George Harrison’s most iconic solo song and a definitive representation of the All Things Must Pass album and his artistic path beyond The Beatles. It seamlessly blends spiritual devotion with pop sensibilities, creating a transcendent and universally appealing anthem.
Harrison acknowledged his initial hesitation in releasing “My Sweet Lord,” anticipating potential controversy due to its overtly spiritual themes. However, he felt compelled to express his belief in the unity of different spiritual paths, stating, “I wanted to show that ‘Hallelujah’ and ‘Hare Krishna’ are quite the same thing.” The song’s soaring melody, uplifting lyrics, and Harrison’s heartfelt vocal performance resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Despite later legal challenges regarding its similarity to “He’s So Fine,” “My Sweet Lord” remains a timeless expression of spiritual joy and one of Harrison’s most beloved and enduring songs.
5. ‘Taxman’
‘Taxman’, the opening track of the Revolver album, marked a significant turning point in George Harrison’s songwriting within The Beatles. It signaled his emergence as a confident and relevant songwriter within the band’s dynamic and showcased his willingness to address topical and personal issues in his music.
Inspired by Harrison’s own frustration with the high tax rates imposed on top earners in Britain at the time, “Taxman” is a biting and satirical commentary on taxation. The line “There’s one for you, nineteen for me,” directly references the then-95% tax rate. John Lennon contributed to the song, adding some of its memorable one-liners. “Taxman” not only demonstrated Harrison’s growing songwriting confidence but also his ability to infuse social commentary with rock and roll energy, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with within The Beatles’ creative landscape.
4. ‘Here Comes The Sun’
Arguably George Harrison’s most universally beloved composition, ‘Here Comes The Sun’ is a quintessential example of his melodic genius and his ability to evoke profound emotions with seemingly simple musical structures. Featured on the Abbey Road album, the song’s opening acoustic guitar riff is instantly recognizable and universally uplifting.
Harrison recounted writing “Here Comes The Sun” during a period of stress related to Apple Corps’ business affairs. Seeking respite, he visited Eric Clapton and found inspiration while strolling through Clapton’s garden. The song captures a feeling of release and renewal, mirroring the joy of springtime after a long winter. Its optimistic lyrics, radiant melody, and Harrison’s warm vocals have made it an enduring anthem of hope and positivity. Its ability to evoke smiles and uplift spirits solidifies its place as one of the most cherished songs ever written.
3. ‘Something’
When an artist of Frank Sinatra’s stature declares your song “the greatest love song of the past 50 years,” it’s a clear indication of its exceptional quality. ‘Something’ remains a landmark achievement for George Harrison, marking his breakthrough as a fully recognized songwriter within The Beatles and paving the way for his solo success.
“Something” was the first Harrison composition to be released as an A-side single by The Beatles and the first of their number-one hits not credited to Lennon-McCartney. Featured on the Abbey Road album, the song’s sophisticated chord progression, soulful melody, and heartfelt lyrics established Harrison as a songwriting force equal to his more established bandmates. While speculation persists about its inspiration, Harrison himself downplayed the lyrical significance, emphasizing the melody as its core strength. Regardless of its specific muse, “Something” remains a timeless love song and a testament to Harrison’s melodic gifts.
2. ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’
‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’ is widely considered George Harrison’s magnum opus with The Beatles. Recorded for The White Album, it is a deeply emotive and musically rich composition that showcases his songwriting maturity and his willingness to explore complex themes.
The song’s genesis is rooted in Harrison’s exploration of Eastern philosophy and the I Ching (Chinese Book of Changes). He conceived of the song as an exercise in randomness, believing that all events, even seemingly random ones, have a purpose. The phrase “gently weeps” came to him upon opening the book at random. Dissatisfied with the Beatles’ initial attempts to record the song, Harrison invited Eric Clapton to contribute the iconic guitar solo. Clapton’s participation, initially met with some hesitation due to the Beatles’ insularity, elevated the song to another level. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance, showcasing Harrison’s depth, vulnerability, and musical brilliance. Despite being relegated to the B-side of “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” its artistic merit far surpasses its initial placement, further highlighting the limitations Harrison faced within The Beatles.
1. ‘All Things Must Pass’
Topping the list is ‘All Things Must Pass’, the title track from George Harrison’s monumental post-Beatles triple album. While surprisingly often overlooked in “best of” lists, this song encapsulates the essence of Harrison’s artistic vision and spiritual depth, solidifying its place as his ultimate masterpiece.
Originally demoed by Harrison for The Beatles on his 26th birthday, “All Things Must Pass” was ultimately rejected by the band, a decision that now seems unfathomable given its profound beauty and timeless message. The lyrics, inspired by a translation of the Tao Te Ching, explore the transient nature of life and the importance of embracing change. Harrison’s delivery is both tender and powerful, conveying a sense of wisdom and acceptance. “All Things Must Pass” represents a harmonious fusion of Western pop and Eastern philosophy, showcasing Harrison’s unique ability to articulate complex spiritual ideas through accessible and deeply moving music. It stands as a testament to his songwriting genius and his enduring artistic legacy.
Related Topics:
George HarrisonThe Beatles
