Most people can recognize the name George Harrison from one of the most influential bands of all time, the Beatles, but few ever venture into the solo works of the members. “All Things Must Pass,” released as a triple album on Nov. 27, 1970, was Harrison’s first published work after the break-up of the band. Upon its release it topped the charts around the world and was called a rock masterpiece. Many known musicians at the time contributed to the album, such as former bandmate Ringo Star, Eric Clapton and Bob Dylan. The album helped him grow his own reputation as an individual artist, known by the name of George Harrison.
Since this album is longer that most works, here are my favorites:
1. “Behind That Locked Door” – Harrison wrote this song directed at his close friend, Bob Dylan, encouraging him to overcome his shyness and share his true self with the world.
2.“If Not for You” – This track is actually a cover, the original song was written by Bob Dylan, a love song about his wife at the time. Harrison takes the song in a different direction to fit the spiritual theme of the album.
3. “My Sweet Lord” – Released as a single, this song was the biggest hit of the album and still remains the most well known. This song displays Harrison’s signature slide guitar technique as well has his recurring use of spiritual themes.
4. “Isn’t It a Pity” – A song written during for the Beatles, originally proposed for their album, “Revolver.” Harrison explains in his autobiography, “I Me Mine,” that the song is about whenever a relationship hits a down point stating, “It was a chance to realize that if I felt somebody had let me down, then there’s a good chance I was letting someone else down. We all tend to break each other’s hearts, taking and not giving back.”
5. “Beware of Darkness” – A moody slow song, known for its creepy feeling as it was used in the opening scene of the horror movie, “Weapons.”
6. “What Is Life” – This was another single released for the album. An upbeat song thats draws on ideas like deep love, the recurring theme of spiritual love and finding one’s purpose.
7. “All Things Must Pass” – Where the name of the album comes from. This song conveys a deep message of the nature of life that all things, good or bad, will pass.
8. “Wah-Wah” – This song was written by Harrison during the final recordings with the Beatles specifically the “Get Back/Let It Be,” sessions. The lyrics show his frustration and anger during these sessions and the troubled atmosphere he was in.
