The Beatles
Something
"Something" isn't just a love song by The Beatles, it's a testament to the songwriting prowess of George Harrison, a cultural touchstone, and a beautifully crafted ballad. Released in 1969 on the band's iconic album "Abbey Road," the song, written solely by Harrison, became a critical and commercial success.
Chart-Topping Success and Cultural Impact
Though initially a B-side to John Lennon's "Come Together," "Something" quickly rose in popularity, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and becoming the first Harrison composition to be a Beatles A-side single. The song's enduring legacy is evident in its status as the second most-covered Beatles song after "Yesterday," with artists as diverse as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Elvis Presley putting their own spin on it.
Lyrical Interpretation and Song Meaning
The lyrics, with lines like "Something in the way she moves attracts me like a moth to a flame," paint a vivid picture of adoration. However, Harrison himself offered a more nuanced take. He initially questioned the song's originality, fearing it was subconsciously lifted from another source. Later comments suggested inspiration from Ray Charles and a desire to write a love song that transcended the superficial.
The Beatles' "Something" is a love song shrouded in beautiful ambiguity. Written by George Harrison and released in 1969 on "Abbey Road," the track transcended its chart-topping success to become a cultural touchstone and a testament to Harrison's songwriting evolution. But who exactly is the "something" the song refers to?
Pattie Boyd and the Muse of "Something"
While interpretations abound, the prevailing belief is that "Something" was written for Pattie Boyd, Harrison's wife at the time. Harrison himself offered conflicting statements. He initially claimed the song wasn't about a specific person, then later acknowledged Boyd's inspiration, particularly in the promotional film featuring the couple. Boyd herself confirmed Harrison wrote it for her, calling it "beautiful."
Beyond the Personal: A Universal Expression of Love
However, Harrison's comments about his deepening interest in Krishna Consciousness suggest a deeper meaning. He reportedly considered the song a devotion to Lord Krishna, with the line "Something in the way she moves" initially referencing the deity. This spiritual influence adds a layer of universality to the song, suggesting love as a divine force.
Lyrical Exploration: Unveiling Layers of Emotion
The lyrics themselves are open to interpretation. Lines like "You're asking me to give you something I think you already know" hint at a deeper understanding between the lovers. The repeated refrain, "I don't want to lie," underscores the song's honesty.
More Than Just a Love Song: Artistic Growth and Band Dynamics
"Something" marked a turning point for Harrison. Long overshadowed by Lennon and McCartney's songwriting prowess, the song earned him the admiration of his bandmates. Paul McCartney famously called it the best song on "Abbey Road," while John Lennon deemed it "too good." This praise cemented Harrison's place as a top-tier songwriter within The Beatles.
Conclusion: A Song for the Ages
"Something" is a song that defies easy categorization. It's a love song potentially inspired by a wife, a devotional hymn disguised as pop, and a testament to artistic growth. Ultimately, the beauty lies in its ambiguity, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a personal level. Whether you hear a declaration of love to Pattie Boyd, a spiritual awakening, or simply a celebration of human connection, "Something" remains a powerful and moving track, a true gem in The Beatles' vast discography.
Band Member Perspectives
Paul McCartney, known for his own melodic masterpieces, famously declared "Something" the best song on "Abbey Road." John Lennon echoed that sentiment, calling it "too good." This praise from his bandmates solidified Harrison's arrival as a top-tier songwriter within The Beatles.
Recording and Interesting Facts
Recording "Something" wasn't without its quirks. Harrison began composing the melody while McCartney was working in an adjacent studio. The now-iconic guitar solo, lauded by music critics, was reportedly improvised during the session.
Controversies (or lack thereof)
Unlike some Beatles songs, "Something" has a squeaky clean history. There are no claims of plagiarism or copyright issues, a rarity for such a widely covered song.
Notable Cover Versions
The sheer number of "Something" covers speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. From James Brown's soulful rendition to Fiona Apple's stripped-down interpretation, the song has transcended genre and generation.
Conclusion
"Something" is more than a love song; it's a testament to artistic growth, heartfelt emotions, and the enduring power of music. The song's journey, from Harrison's initial doubts to its status as a beloved classic, is a story in itself. Whether you're a die-hard Beatles fan or a casual listener, "Something" has the power to move you, just like the person it's written about.