Are you a fan of George Harrison’s music?
Do you want to know which songs are considered his best of all time?
Look no further, because we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best George Harrison songs that have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by fans.
From his time with The Beatles to his successful solo career, George Harrison created a legacy of music that has influenced generations of musicians.
His music was characterized by thoughtful lyrics, beautiful melodies, and innovative guitar work.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering his music, this list of his greatest hits is sure to have something that will speak to you.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this journey through the best of George Harrison’s musical career.
Enjoy our list of the best George Harrison songs of all time!
1. “All Things Must Pass”
You’ll love “All Things Must Pass”, it’s one of George Harrison’s best songs of all time.
This track, which was the title of Harrison’s first solo album, is a masterpiece that showcases his creative talent.
It features a beautiful melody, powerful lyrics, and impressive guitar work, making it a fan favorite.
The song is known for its timeless message about the transience of life and the need to cherish every moment.
Harrison’s vocals are soulful and emotive, perfectly conveying the song’s message.
“All Things Must Pass” is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates good music, and it’s not hard to see why it’s considered one of Harrison’s greatest hits.
2. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
When listening to “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”, it’s impossible not to be moved by the raw emotion in Harrison’s guitar playing.
This iconic song was released in 1968 on The Beatles‘ self-titled album and is widely regarded as one of Harrison’s greatest compositions.
The song’s melancholic melody and introspective lyrics are complemented by Harrison’s masterful guitar work.
The memorable solo is both technically impressive and emotionally stirring.
The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to Harrison’s skill as a songwriter and musician.
It remains a highlight of his impressive catalog of work.
3. “Something”
“Something” is a beautiful and timeless love song that showcases Harrison’s ability to write deeply emotional and heartfelt lyrics.
The song was written for Pattie Boyd, Harrison’s wife at the time, and remains one of the Beatles’ most popular tracks.
The opening guitar riff, played by Harrison, is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the rest of the song.
The lyrics are simple yet powerful, expressing the feeling of being in love with someone and not being able to fully explain it.
Harrison’s vocals are also notable, conveying a sense of vulnerability and sincerity.
“Something” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and continues to be a beloved classic.
4. “Here Comes The Sun”
With its uplifting melody and optimistic lyrics, “Here Comes The Sun” is a masterpiece that showcases Harrison’s ability to create timeless and enduring music.
Released in 1969, the song is a perfect representation of the optimism and hope of the times.
Harrison’s use of the acoustic guitar and intricate guitar work adds depth and texture to the song, while McCartney’s harmonies and Ringo Starr’s drumming help to make it a complete and unforgettable track.
It’s no wonder that “Here Comes The Sun” is considered one of Harrison’s greatest hits and a staple in the catalog of classic rock songs.
5. “Taxman”
The upbeat and catchy tune of “Taxman” is a testament to Harrison’s songwriting prowess, with its biting lyrics criticizing the high taxes imposed on the wealthy in the UK.
The song’s opening riff played on a guitar with a fuzz effect, immediately grabs the listener’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the track.
The lyrics, which were inspired by Harrison’s frustration with the high taxes he and his fellow Beatles were paying, are cleverly written and delivered with a sense of urgency.
Overall, “Taxman” is a standout track on the Beatles’ iconic album Revolver and remains one of Harrison’s most beloved compositions.
6. “My Sweet Lord”
“My Sweet Lord” is a soulful and uplifting track that showcases Harrison’s spiritual beliefs and love for Indian music.
The song was released in 1970 and quickly became one of Harrison’s most popular hits, reaching the number one spot on charts around the world.
The song’s message of unity and love transcends religious boundaries, making it a timeless classic that resonates with listeners to this day.
The track’s arrangement and production also deserve recognition, with its soaring chorus and intricate instrumentation.
Overall, “My Sweet Lord” is a masterpiece that highlights Harrison’s musical and spiritual prowess.
7. “Within You Without You”
Now let’s dive into another one of George Harrison’s greatest hits, “Within You Without You”.
This song is a unique departure from the typical rock sound associated with the Beatles, as it heavily features Indian classical music and philosophy.
The lyrics touch on the idea of unity and interconnectedness between all living beings.
Harrison’s use of sitars and other traditional Indian instruments creates a mesmerizing and introspective atmosphere.
“Within You Without You” showcases Harrison’s ability to blend different musical styles and cultures, and serves as a testament to his creativity and experimentation as an artist.
8. “I’d Have You Anytime”
With its soft and dreamy melody, “I’d Have You Anytime” serves as a beautiful collaboration between George Harrison and Bob Dylan.
Released in 1970, this song was the opening track of Harrison’s solo debut album, All Things Must Pass.
The gentle guitar strumming and Harrison’s soothing vocals make it a perfect song for any romantic occasion.
“I’d Have You Anytime” may not be as popular as some of Harrison’s other hits, but its charm and beauty make it one of his best works.
9. “What is Life”
“What’s Life” is a catchy and upbeat song that showcases George Harrison’s talent for crafting memorable melodies and lyrics.
The song starts with a lively guitar riff that sets the tone for the entire track.
Harrison’s vocals are confident and full of energy, making it impossible to resist singing along.
Lyrically, the song explores the idea of the purpose of life and the importance of living in the moment.
Harrison’s message is optimistic and uplifting, reminding listeners to appreciate every moment and find joy in the simple things.
Overall, “What’s Life” is a fantastic addition to Harrison’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day.
10. “Bangla Desh”
You might not know this, but “Bangla Desh” was a charity concert organized by George Harrison in 1971 to raise funds for refugees of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
It was held at Madison Square Garden in New York City and featured performances by Harrison, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and other notable musicians.
The concert was a huge success, raising over $240,000 for the cause.
Harrison’s song “Bangla Desh” was written specifically for the event and became a hit single.
The concert and the song helped to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh at the time.
Today, “Bangla Desh” remains an important part of Harrison’s legacy and a reminder of the power of music to bring people together for a good cause.
11. “It’s All Too Much”
One of the lesser-known gems in George Harrison’s discography is the psychedelic epic “It’s All Too Much”.
Released in 1969 on the Yellow Submarine soundtrack, the song clocks in at over six minutes and features trippy lyrics, swirling guitars, and a hypnotic bassline.
Harrison’s vocals are dreamy and ethereal, adding to the overall otherworldly vibe of the track.
Despite not being as well-known as some of Harrison’s other hits, “It’s All Too Much” is a standout example of his ability to create innovative and captivating music.
It’s psychedelic sound and abstract lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of the late 1960s, making it a must-listen for any fans of Harrison or the era’s music.
12. “Simply Shady”
“Simply Shady” is a groovy tune that showcases George Harrison‘s talent for creating catchy melodies and incorporating unique instrumentation.
The song features a driving rhythm section and an infectious guitar riff that will have you tapping your foot in no time.
Harrison’s vocals are smooth and soulful, adding to the overall cool vibe of the track.
The use of sitar and other Eastern-inspired instruments gives the song a distinct flavor, which was a hallmark of Harrison’s solo work.
Though not as well-known as some of his other hits, “Simply Shady” is a standout track that highlights Harrison’s musical prowess and creativity.
13. “The Inner Light”
“The Inner Light” is a beautiful and hauntingly atmospheric track that transports you to a mystical realm through the mesmerizing sounds of the Indian instruments.
The lyrics, inspired by the Tao Te Ching, offer a message of peace and wisdom that’s still relevant today.
The use of the sitar, tabla, and other traditional Indian instruments creates a hypnotic and otherworldly vibe that perfectly complements the song’s spiritual themes.
Overall, “The Inner Light” is a standout track in Harrison’s discography and a must-listen for fans of his unique musical style.
14. “Piggies”
You’ll be transported to a whimsical world with the playful and satirical lyrics of “Piggies”, a track that showcases Harrison’s clever wordplay and biting social commentary.
The song is a scathing indictment of the wealthy and privileged, using the metaphor of pigs to illustrate their greed and selfishness.
The use of a classical string arrangement and whimsical sound effects adds to the song’s playful tone, making it a standout track on The Beatles.
Despite its lighthearted sound, “Piggies” is a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked capitalism and serves as a testament to Harrison’s skill as a songwriter and social commentator.
15. “Got My Mind Set On You”
Hey, have you heard “Got My Mind Set On You”?
It’s a catchy and upbeat track that showcases Harrison’s ability to blend rock and pop genres seamlessly.
This song was actually a cover of a 1962 track by James Ray, but Harrison’s version became a huge hit in the late 80s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song features a driving beat, infectious guitar riffs, and Harrison’s signature vocals.
It’s a perfect example of his ability to write catchy and memorable melodies, and it’s no wonder that it remains one of his most beloved hits.
If you’re looking for a feel-good tune that’s sure to get you moving, “Got My Mind Set On You” is definitely worth checking out.
Best George Harrison Songs of All Time – Final Thoughts
So there you have it – the 15 best George Harrison songs of all time.
Harrison left an indelible mark on the music world with his unique blend of rock, folk, and Indian music.
From the classic ballad “Something” to the upbeat pop hit “Got My Mind Set On You”, his discography is a testament to his talent and versatility.
Whether you’re a die-hard Beatles fan or simply enjoy great music, these songs are a must-listen.
So grab your headphones, sit back, and let the melodic sounds of George Harrison transport you to a world of timeless music.
With his legacy firmly cemented in the annals of music history, Harrison’s songs will continue to inspire and delight generations to come.
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