My Sweet Lord – George Harrison

“My Sweet Lord” is one of George Harrison‘s most celebrated songs, capturing both spiritual longing and musical innovation. Released in 1970 as part of his first solo album, All Things Must Pass, it marked Harrison’s first big hit as an individual artist, post-Beatles. Deeply spiritual in nature, the song reflects Harrison’s interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality, especially Hinduism. The lyrics feature a blend of Christian and Hindu devotional expressions, merging “Hallelujah” with “Hare Krishna,” symbolizing a universal form of devotion that resonated with millions. This unique blend of faiths and the repetition of a simple, reverent phrase made “My Sweet Lord” a bridge between Eastern and Western religious thought, capturing a shared human experience of seeking something beyond oneself.

The song’s composition and production set it apart as well, driven by a memorable slide guitar riff, layered harmonies, and a gospel-like arrangement. Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” production technique added a sense of grandeur, giving it a rich, full sound that made it feel almost like a hymn. The simplicity of the lyrics, repeating “I really want to see you” and “I really want to know you, Lord,” brings the song to an emotional climax, as Harrison’s desire for spiritual connection becomes almost palpable. This layered instrumental and vocal arrangement was ahead of its time and added to the song’s spiritual tone.

However, “My Sweet Lord” also became famous for legal controversy. In 1971, it was the subject of a plagiarism lawsuit, as its melody closely resembled The Chiffons’ 1963 hit “He’s So Fine.” Harrison denied intentional copying, attributing it to subconscious inspiration, but he ultimately lost the case. Despite this, the song’s spiritual message and groundbreaking fusion of musical styles solidified its place in rock history. Over the years, it has remained a powerful anthem of faith, peace, and the yearning for something greater, symbolizing Harrison’s role as the spiritual voice of his generation.