George Harrison: Love Songs for His Second Wife Olivia
George Harrison, the legendary member of The Beatles, was known not only for his groundbreaking musical contributions but also for his emotional and personal compositions. Throughout his career, Harrison expressed his profound love for his second wife Olivia Harrison through several heartfelt songs. This article explores these songs and the context in which they were written.
Early Expression: "Abbey Road" (1969)
One of the earliest examples of Harrison's love for Olivia is reflected in the song "Something" from the iconic album Abbey Road (1969). Although the song was written before his marriage to Olivia, it has been mentioned that Harrison felt it conveyed his feelings towards her. The chord progression and lyrical beauty of "Something" are often considered some of Harrison's finest compositions.
After Marriage: "Cloud Nine" and "Brainwashed" (1978)
After marrying Olivia Harrison in 1978, George continued to write love songs for her. The album Dark Horse (1976) includes several tracks with themes of love and devotion:
Cloud Nine BrainwashedThese songs not only reflect Harrison's deep affection for Olivia but also encapsulate the love that has become a central theme in his later work.
Post-Mariage Albums: "George Harrison" (1979) and "Dark Sweet Lady"
Harrison's 1979 album George Harrison also contains numerous songs that echo his feelings for Olivia. The track "Love Comes to Everyone" is particularly heartfelt, as are:
Here Comes the Moon Soft Hearted Hanna Blow Away (a hit from the album) Dark Sweet LadyThe album Dark Horse (1976) is another gem that includes unsung gems such as "Here Comes the Moon," "Love Comes to Everyone," "Soft Hearted Hanna," and "Blow Away." This period in Harrison's career is marked by a string of personal and relatable love songs that appeal to a wide audience.
Love and Devotion in Later Years
In his later solo work, Harrison continued to express his love for Olivia through modified versions of old songs and new compositions. One notable example is the song "Beautiful Girl" from the album Thirty Three and a Third (1987). This song, like many others from this period, is a testament to Harrison's enduring connection with Olivia.
Conclusion
George Harrison's love songs for Olivia Harrison are a poignant reminder of the personal influence he brought to his music. These songs not only showcase the depth of his feelings but also demonstrate how personal experiences can deeply resonate with listeners. Through his work, Harrison shows us the power of love in art, making his music timeless and universally appealing.