“Something,” written by George Harrison, marks a significant turning point in his songwriting career within The Beatles and is widely regarded as one of the band’s finest compositions. It was released on the Abbey Road album, and its eventual release as a single – the first Harrison composition to be released as an A-side Beatles single – signifies a crucial moment in the band’s dynamic. Prior to “Something,” Harrison’s songwriting contributions to the band were often overshadowed by the Lennon-McCartney partnership. “Something” not only demonstrated Harrison’s growth as a songwriter but also his ability to craft a timeless classic that could stand alongside any of their greatest hits.
The song’s origins trace back to a period of significant growth and change within The Beatles. The Get Back/Let It Be sessions had been fraught with tension, and by the time the band began work on Abbey Road, they were working on songs individually at home, bringing them to the group for polish. Harrison was prolific during this period, writing several songs, many of which did not make it onto albums. “Something” was one such composition, and he often stated it was one of his own favorites.
There are varying accounts of the exact inspiration for “Something,” but Harrison has stated it stemmed from a combination of different sources. One of them was an offhand comment made by producer George Martin during the recording of an earlier Beatles album. Martin remarked that Harrison hadn’t brought in enough good songs, and this seemed to spur Harrison on. He also drew inspiration from the song “Something in the Way She Moves” by James Taylor, from Taylor’s Apple Records debut. Harrison didn’t want to overtly copy Taylor, but he felt that the phrase was a good starting point for his own song. He then added lyrics about his growing relationship with Pattie Boyd, at the time his wife. It is therefore considered to be a song that captures the depth of his romantic feelings while also being a testament to his maturity as a songwriter.
The writing process wasn’t entirely straightforward. Harrison struggled with the bridge, which he initially felt was inadequate. He eventually sought guidance from Lennon and McCartney, but their suggestions, which were quite different from one another, didn’t fit with Harrison’s vision. He ended up resolving this by adding a simple, descending bassline, a distinctive rhythmic figure that adds to the song’s allure.
The recording of “Something” was done during the Abbey Road sessions and the band treated it with the care and attention it deserved. George Martin’s role in the development of the song was instrumental, especially in crafting the orchestral arrangement which added depth and emotional resonance to the track. The use of a string section, a brass section, and a subtle piano part all contributed to the song’s lush, almost orchestral sound. This was a significant departure from some of their earlier recordings, showcasing their growing sophistication as studio artists. The band was also keen to make the song feel like a complete band effort, with McCartney contributing one of his most melodic bass lines and Starr’s rhythmic drumming subtly and effectively supporting the song. Lennon is also a key presence on the track, even if his lead vocal is only in harmony.
The track also benefited from the state-of-the-art recording technology available at Abbey Road. The band was able to experiment with different recording techniques, layering different instruments to create a complex and rich sound. This technological sophistication added to the song’s sense of depth and scale.
The release of “Something” as a single was significant in that it highlighted Harrison’s role within the band and established him as a force to be reckoned with as a songwriter. It also showed that the band was able to put aside the growing tensions that existed in the final year of their recording career, and treat a song that was not a Lennon/McCartney composition with the same care and attention they’d given their own. It was a statement of mutual respect and a final testament to the Beatles’ collective genius.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Something” is a beautiful fusion of rock, pop, and ballad elements, characterized by its sophisticated chord progressions, memorable melody, and lush orchestral arrangement. It’s a prime example of how The Beatles could blend different genres to create a unique and timeless sound.
One of the most striking features of “Something” is its harmonic complexity. The song features a number of unusual chord progressions, which give it a melancholic yet uplifting quality. Harrison’s use of major and minor chords, along with the addition of passing chords and seventh chords, creates a sophisticated harmonic landscape. The song moves seamlessly between different keys, adding to its sense of fluidity and depth. This approach to harmony contributes to the song’s emotional richness, making it more than a simple love song.
The melody of “Something” is also exceptional. It’s a simple, singable melody that is both memorable and emotionally engaging. The melody unfolds gracefully, rising and falling in a way that captures the ebb and flow of romantic emotions. The melody is not overly embellished, allowing the inherent beauty of the notes to shine through. Harrison’s vocal performance is similarly understated, conveying a sense of sincerity and vulnerability.
The song’s arrangement is a key element of its musical style. The use of acoustic guitar as the primary driving force gives the song a warm and intimate feel. The bass line, played by McCartney, is melodic and inventive, often playing countermelodies that complement the main melody. Ringo Starr’s drumming is restrained but effective, providing a steady rhythmic foundation for the other instruments. Starr uses brushes in some sections, adding to the song’s gentle, ballad-like feel.
The orchestral arrangement by George Martin is also crucial to the song’s overall sound. The use of strings, brass, and piano adds layers of complexity and emotional depth. The strings provide lush harmonies and countermelodies, while the brass adds a touch of warmth and majesty. The piano is used sparingly, adding subtle touches that enhance the song’s overall texture. The orchestral elements are integrated seamlessly into the song, enhancing rather than overwhelming the core band arrangement. The orchestra enhances the underlying romanticism of the song without becoming overly sentimental.
The use of dynamics is another hallmark of the song’s musical style. The song moves between quieter, more intimate sections and louder, more expansive moments, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience. These shifts in dynamics contribute to the overall emotional impact of the song, ensuring that it feels both heartfelt and powerful.
The song also features a memorable guitar solo by Harrison. The solo is melodic and lyrical, reflecting the overall emotional tone of the song. It’s not a flashy or technically challenging solo, but it is perfectly suited to the song’s structure and overall feel. The guitar work of Harrison is understated throughout the song, with his choice of notes and phrasing playing a crucial role in the overall sound.
“Something” is also notable for its tempo. The song’s moderate tempo contributes to its gentle, ballad-like feel. The pace is not overly slow, allowing the song to maintain a sense of momentum without feeling rushed. The tempo is key to creating the mood of relaxed intimacy that underpins the entire track. The pacing allows the listener to fully absorb the nuances of the melody, harmony, and lyrics.
The overall feel of “Something” is one of timeless elegance and sophistication. The song’s combination of rock, pop, and ballad elements, along with its lush orchestral arrangement, creates a unique and memorable listening experience. It’s a song that feels both modern and classic, appealing to listeners across generations.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Something” are deceptively simple yet profoundly moving, capturing the essence of romantic love in a way that is both personal and universal. The song’s lyrical content is marked by its heartfelt sincerity and its ability to evoke deep emotion through relatively simple language.
The opening lines of the song immediately establish the central theme: “Something in the way she moves attracts me like no other lover.” This line introduces the idea of a mysterious, irresistible force of attraction. The lyrics focus on the ineffable qualities of love, suggesting that some connections are beyond easy explanation. The use of the word “something” is key to the entire theme of the song.
The following lines build upon this initial idea, further exploring the complexity of the narrator’s feelings: “Something in the way she woos me, I don’t want to leave her now.” The lyrics portray a sense of complete devotion and a deep desire to remain connected to the beloved. The use of the word “woos” adds to the gentle and romantic sensibility of the song.
The lyrics continue to explore the depths of the narrator’s emotional connection, highlighting both the joy and the vulnerability that come with love. “You’re asking me will my love grow, I don’t know, I don’t know.” This line acknowledges the uncertainty inherent in romantic relationships while also affirming the narrator’s willingness to embrace the unknown. The repetition of “I don’t know” emphasizes the complexity of love and its inherent unpredictability. This lyrical honesty contributes to the song’s emotional power, making it feel relatable and authentic.
The bridge of the song provides a crucial shift in perspective, moving away from the purely personal and towards a more universal exploration of love. “Somewhere in her smile she knows, that I don’t need no other lover.” This line acknowledges the power of non-verbal communication and the deep understanding that can exist within a romantic relationship. The phrase “Somewhere in her smile she knows” highlights the narrator’s trust and faith in his beloved. This line also emphasizes that this love is all he needs, demonstrating the completeness of the love the narrator is singing about.
The lyrics of “Something” are notable for their simplicity. Harrison avoids overly ornate language or complex metaphors, opting instead for direct, heartfelt expression. The song’s power comes from its ability to convey deep emotion through everyday language. This emphasis on simplicity contributes to the song’s universal appeal. The words are not overly poetic; they are simple and direct, reinforcing the sincerity of the song’s emotional message.
The repetition of certain phrases, such as “something in the way she moves,” reinforces the song’s central theme and adds to its lyrical power. The repetition not only emphasizes the ineffable quality of love, but also adds to the song’s overall musical structure, creating a sense of unity and coherence.
The lyrics also explore the themes of devotion, vulnerability, and the desire for connection. The song portrays a love that is both passionate and tender, both certain and uncertain. This combination of emotions contributes to the song’s complexity and ensures that it resonates deeply with listeners. The lyrics are not just a simple declaration of love; they capture a deeper, more nuanced understanding of what it means to be in love.
Overall, the lyrics of “Something” are a testament to Harrison’s growing skill as a songwriter. They manage to capture the complexity and profundity of romantic love through simple and direct language, making the song feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Something” is significant, solidifying its place as a timeless classic of popular music. The song’s widespread acclaim and influence are a testament to its musical quality and its ability to resonate with audiences across different generations.
One of the most immediate impacts of “Something” was its commercial success. It became a number-one hit in the United States and enjoyed considerable popularity in other countries, confirming Harrison’s arrival as a major songwriting force within The Beatles. Its success was not just a Beatles success, but one for Harrison as an individual, showing he was finally being appreciated as much as Lennon and McCartney. The song’s popularity demonstrated the band’s ability to connect with audiences beyond their traditional fanbase and expanded their reach even further.
“Something” also played a significant role in elevating Harrison’s status within The Beatles. Prior to its release, his contributions were often overshadowed by Lennon-McCartney, but “Something” demonstrated his ability to craft a song that could stand alongside any of their greatest hits. The song’s success helped to establish Harrison as a significant creative force in his own right, leading to greater recognition for his songwriting talents.
The song’s influence can also be seen in its impact on other songwriters. “Something” showed how complex emotions could be captured through simple, direct language, inspiring a new generation of songwriters to approach their craft with more depth and honesty. The song’s ability to blend pop and rock with orchestral arrangements also had an impact on the musical landscape, encouraging artists to experiment with different styles and textures. It showcased that simple and honest emotions could provide just as powerful a theme as the complex and elaborate.
“Something” has been covered by countless artists across various genres, from jazz to rock, pop, country and soul, further illustrating its enduring appeal and timeless quality. These cover versions often put their own spin on the song, highlighting its versatility and allowing it to be interpreted in different ways. Artists as diverse as Elvis Presley, Joe Cocker, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles have covered “Something,” demonstrating its wide-ranging appeal and ability to cross genre boundaries. This sheer number of cover versions is a testament to the song’s broad appeal and enduring relevance.
The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. Its association with love and romance has made it a popular choice for use in weddings, romantic comedies, and dramas, showcasing its ability to evoke deep emotional connections.
“Something” has become an integral part of popular culture. It continues to be played on radio stations, featured on compilations, and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages. The song has transcended its original context and remains relevant and emotionally engaging for new generations of listeners. Its ability to resonate with different audiences over many decades is a testament to its timeless quality and universal themes.
The enduring impact of “Something” is also evident in how it continues to influence contemporary musicians. Its unique harmonic structures, beautiful melody, and emotionally honest lyrics continue to inspire new artists to experiment with different styles and songwriting approaches. The song is often cited as an influence by younger artists who aim to capture the same emotional depth and sincerity in their own work. The song also continues to be studied by musicians as a perfect example of song writing craft.
The song represents a pivotal moment in the Beatles’ career, marking a shift in their internal dynamics and demonstrating the band’s ability to evolve and innovate. “Something” was more than just a song; it was a moment of artistic breakthrough, signifying Harrison’s emergence as a significant songwriting talent, and a sign that the Beatles could still push musical boundaries, even as they neared the end of their incredible journey.
Conclusion
“Something” by The Beatles is a remarkable achievement in songwriting, showcasing George Harrison’s talent and the band’s ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally appealing. The song’s journey from an initial idea to a beloved classic is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and genuine emotional expression. From its unique harmonic structure and memorable melody to its simple yet profound lyrics, “Something” is a song that captures the complexities of love in a way that resonates with listeners across different generations.
Its musical style, blending rock, pop, and ballad elements with a lush orchestral arrangement, creates a rich and engaging listening experience. The lyrics, though deceptively simple, convey a depth of emotion and a heartfelt sincerity that is both timeless and universally relatable. Harrison’s heartfelt vocal delivery adds to the song’s emotional impact, making it feel like a personal message of love and devotion.
The song’s cultural impact is profound. It elevated Harrison’s status within The Beatles, established him as a major force in the band, and influenced countless other songwriters. Its commercial success was matched by its widespread critical acclaim and its enduring popularity across diverse genres. The continued success of “Something” as a radio classic and a key song for cover versions highlights the timeless quality of the composition. Its presence in various films and television programs shows the depth of its emotional reach.
“Something” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to evoke deep emotion and connect people through its timeless message of love and devotion. Its ability to transcend generational boundaries is a testament to its enduring appeal. It stands as a testament to Harrison’s songwriting genius and the Beatles’ ability to create music that is both artistically significant and commercially successful.
In conclusion, “Something” is a cornerstone of the Beatles’ legacy. It is a song that showcases the band’s ability to combine musical sophistication with emotional honesty, and to create something truly special that will continue to captivate and move audiences for generations to come. Its enduring appeal speaks to its timeless quality, and its place as a truly classic song in popular music. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of music lovers, highlighting its enduring place in popular culture.