George Harrison

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The Beatles arrive at Schiphol Airport 1964-06-05 - George Harrison 916-5132 cropped

George Harrison and Ringo Starr, King's Hall, Belfast 1964 (18226096790)

Don Grierson with George Harrison Golden Apple Award

Wonderwall by George Harrison

George Harrison (25 February 1943 – 29 November 2001) was an English musician, singer-songwriter, and music and film producer who achieved international fame as the lead guitarist of the Beatles. Often referred to as "the quiet Beatle," Harrison embraced Indian culture and helped broaden the scope of popular music through his incorporation of Indian instrumentation and Hindu-aligned spirituality in the Beatles' work.

Early Life

George Harrison was born in Liverpool, England, to Harold Hargreaves Harrison and Louise French. He was the youngest of four children. His early life in Liverpool, attending Dovedale Primary School and later the Liverpool Institute for Boys, played a crucial role in shaping his musical interests. Harrison developed an interest in music early on, particularly in the rock and roll genre after hearing Elvis Presley's "Heartbreak Hotel."

Career with the Beatles

Harrison joined the Beatles, then called the Quarrymen, in 1958 at the invitation of Paul McCartney, who was a school friend. The band, which also included John Lennon and, later, Ringo Starr, went on to become one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of popular music. Harrison's role as lead guitarist was pivotal in the band's sound, contributing not only instrumental skill but also a distinctive use of melody. He also developed as a songwriter, contributing such classics as "Something" and "Here Comes the Sun" to the Beatles' catalogue.

Solo Career and Later Life

After the Beatles disbanded in 1970, Harrison embarked on a successful solo career. His first solo album, All Things Must Pass, was a critical and commercial success, featuring the hit single "My Sweet Lord." Harrison continued to release albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, exploring various musical styles and continuing his exploration of spirituality. He also organized the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971, one of the first major charity rock concerts.

In addition to his musical career, Harrison was a film producer, co-founding HandMade Films in 1978, which produced several successful films including Monty Python's Life of Brian and Time Bandits.

Personal Life and Death

Harrison was known for his deep spiritual beliefs, particularly in Hinduism, which influenced much of his music and life. He married Pattie Boyd in 1966, although they later divorced in 1977. He then married Olivia Trinidad Arias in 1978, with whom he had one son, Dhani Harrison.

George Harrison died on 29 November 2001, at the age of 58, from lung cancer. He left behind a legacy as a pioneering musician and cultural icon, whose contributions to music and charity are still celebrated today.

Legacy

Harrison's influence on music and popular culture is immense. He is credited with popularizing Indian music in the West and was instrumental in merging Eastern and Western musical traditions. His humanitarian efforts, particularly the Concert for Bangladesh, set a precedent for benefit concerts and activism through music. Harrison was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 2004 and posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award as a member of the Beatles.