George Harrison emerged from the Beatles’ breakup with a treasure trove of songs. While many of these tracks found their way into the Fab Four’s catalog, others were destined for a different path. One such song, the timeless “What Is Life”, was initially intended for a fellow musician. But fate had other plans.
The song, a soulful exploration of existence, is a cornerstone of Harrison’s solo career. Its journey from conception to the iconic version we know today is a fascinating tale of artistic evolution.
This article delves into the song’s origins, its near-miss with another artist, and the creative process that led to its final form. From the moment its opening chords ring out, “What Is Life” captivates listeners with its raw emotion and philosophical depth.
The Quiet Beatle’s Unfair Repute
The narrative that George Harrison was a secondary songwriter in The Beatles is a persistent myth. While it’s true that John Lennon and Paul McCartney dominated the band’s songwriting output, Harrison’s contributions were often overlooked or undervalued.
His songs were frequently subjected to harsh criticism from his bandmates, despite their quality. Many of the tracks that became highlights of Harrison’s solo career had their origins in the Beatles era.
Songs like “Isn’t It a Pity” and the album title track from his groundbreaking 1970 album, All Things Must Pass, were initially dismissed by Lennon and McCartney. These songs possess the same caliber as many of the Beatles’ hits, demonstrating Harrison’s songwriting prowess.
George Harrison and John Lennon performing with the Beatles, 1967. pic.twitter.com/13j2WXZvQh
— Classic Rock In Pics (@crockpics) January 24, 2024
Almost Giving Away “What Is Life”
Recognizing the potential of his songs beyond The Beatles, Harrison actively sought placements with other artists. His songwriting talent was quickly appreciated by musicians outside the Fab Four. One notable example is “Badge”, a Cream hit co-written by Harrison.
Harrison’s generosity extended to his friends as well. As detailed in his autobiography, I Me Mine, “What Is Life” was originally penned for Billy Preston, the renowned keyboardist who collaborated with The Beatles on Let It Be. However, due to the contrasting musical styles, Harrison decided to keep the song for himself and eventually included it on All Things Must Pass.
While Harrison was more than willing to share his music, it’s clear that he also recognized the gems he had created. These songs, initially overlooked within the Beatles, found their rightful place in the world, ultimately solidifying Harrison’s legacy as a gifted songwriter.
George Harrison & Eric Clapton playing at Madison Square Garden for the Concert For Bangladesh, 1971 pic.twitter.com/I97VXgFQPb
— Alessandro Russo (@sandrinorusso74) July 13, 2024
A Wise Decision That Gave Birth to a Classic
Harrison’s decision to retain “What Is Life” for himself proved to be a pivotal moment in his career. However, crafting a definitive recording presented its own challenges. The various reissues of All Things Must Pass offer glimpses into the song’s evolution, including experimental arrangements featuring oboes and piccolo trumpets.
Harrison was clearly exploring different sonic territories for the track. Ultimately, he opted for a more streamlined approach, emphasizing the core elements of the song. While the experimental arrangements were discarded, other horn sections were retained, adding depth and richness to the sound.
The final version, which became a Top 10 hit in the U.S., showcased Harrison’s signature fuzz guitar riff and featured contributions from renowned musicians like Clapton. This stripped-down yet powerful rendition perfectly captured the essence of the song and solidified its place in music history.
A Love Song for the Ages
George, while possessing a distinct personality from his Beatles bandmates, shared their universal message of love. “What Is Life” exemplifies this theme, as Harrison expresses his deep affection from the outset: “What I feel, I can’t say / But my love is there for you any time of day.”
The song delves into the reciprocal nature of love, with Harrison emphasizing its significance in his life: “Tell me, what is my life without your love? / Tell me, who am I without you by my side?” Inspired by his loved one, he vows to spread love to others: “What I know, I can do / If I give my love now to everyone like you.”
“What Is Life” stands as a testament to Harrison’s songwriting prowess, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotions with heartfelt lyrics. It’s a fortunate circumstance that this beautiful song remained in his own repertoire, enriching the world with its message of love and connection.
George Harrison, impossibly young at 20 and about to become one do the most famous people on the planet, photographed by Dezo Hoffman at ATV's Elstree Studio Centre in Borehamwood, 2nd December 1963. pic.twitter.com/usF3XkyCIw
— Beatles Books Podcast (@BooksBeatles) March 30, 2023
