Something by The Beatles
Released on Fri, September 26, 1969
"Something" holds a significant place in The Beatles' discography, marking the first composition by George Harrison to grace the esteemed "Abbey Road" album. Its impact resonated far beyond its initial release, earning it widespread recognition as one of the most exceptional love songs ever conceived. Such was its acclaim that even the legendary Frank Sinatra, a connoisseur of timeless melodies, lauded its beauty, albeit mistakenly attributing it to the celebrated Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership during a live performance.
The inspiration behind "Something" has been the subject of much speculation, with many believing that it was crafted as an ode to Pattie Boyd, Harrison's spouse at the time. Boyd's life would later intertwine with those of other prominent figures in the rock music scene, most notably Eric Clapton. This association has further fueled the assumption that "Something" was a heartfelt expression of Harrison's affection for her.
However, George Harrison himself later refuted the widely held belief that the song was written specifically for Pattie Boyd. In his own words, he clarified that he simply wrote the song and a video was later created to accompany it, using footage of himself and Pattie, along with Paul and Linda McCartney, Ringo and Maureen Starr, and John Lennon and Yoko Ono. This video subsequently led to the assumption that the song was about Pattie, but Harrison maintained that he was actually thinking of Ray Charles when he penned it.
The release of "Something" as a double A-side single alongside "Come Together" proved to be a resounding success. The single achieved impressive chart positions on both sides of the Atlantic, reaching number four in the United Kingdom and soaring to the top spot in the United States. This commercial triumph further solidified the song's place in popular culture and ensured its enduring legacy.
The song's lyrical simplicity and heartfelt delivery have contributed significantly to its enduring appeal. The lyrics focus on the indescribable quality of love, capturing the essence of devotion and admiration. Harrison's sincere vocals and the song's lush instrumentation further enhance its emotional depth, making it a timeless classic that resonates with listeners of all generations.
In essence, "Something" stands as a testament to George Harrison's growth as a songwriter and his ability to craft a deeply moving and universally relatable love song. Despite the ambiguity surrounding its inspiration, its impact on music history remains undeniable, solidifying its status as a beloved masterpiece within The Beatles' iconic catalog.