All Things Must Pass: Unveiling George Harrison’s Solo Masterpiece

Despite the tumultuous nature of the Beatles' final years, which saw Harrison as the oft-overlooked "junior partner" despite his immense talent, he went on to create one of his most significant works, All Things Must Pass. This album serves as a testament to Harrison's artistic evolution and independence, making it a solo masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Context and Background

Wah Wah, a track featured on All Things Must Pass, was written by Harrison during the Get Back/Let It Be film sessions. It was a direct reaction to the perceived lack of respect and consideration from the earlier bandmates. This track reflects Harrison's frustration and the desire to assert his artistic voice beyond the confines of the group. For decades, Harrison's compositions were often afforded less recording time than Lennon-McCartney's, which contributed to his determination to make his mark with a solo album.

Harrison's Solo Journey

Ironically, Harrison's journey into solo work began after the band's official break-up had become public knowledge, marking a new era in his career. His solo album not only demonstrated his musical capabilities but also his ability to continue evolving as an artist. This period was marked by the release of individual albums by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, both of whom exhibited varying degrees of openness to their former bandmate's endeavors.

Collaborations and Contributions

All Things Must Pass stands out for its massive supporting cast of musicians, far exceeding any prior guest contributions on Beatles tracks. This album not only showcased Harrison's own compositions but also brought together a diverse range of talents, including Richard Perry as the producer, Tom_OCool and Eric Clapton as guitarists, and Ringo Starr and the Philadelphia Orchestra as additional contributors. The inclusion of Rick Davies from chance encounters, along with renowned musicians and engineers, elevates the album to a higher level of production and quality.

The Involvement of Phil Spector

Phil Spector's involvement in All Things Must Pass was crucial and transformative. His influence introduced a "wall of sound" production style, which added depth and richness to the album. Tracks like "My Sweet Lord" exemplify how Spector's production techniques complemented Harrison's compositions, enhancing their collective musical impact. Essentially, Spector's involvement was not merely decorative but an integral part of making this album a true masterpiece.

Artistic Considerations

All Things Must Pass is often regarded as an over-indulgent work, bearing similarities to the White Album in its extensive scope and content. Harrison's personal developments as a musician are evident in his desire to explore various musical territories. However, despite its ambitious nature, the album remains a remarkable achievement. The presence of standout tracks like "Have You Seen Her" and "One After 909", coupled with Harrison's acknowledgment of his debt to Lennon in "All Those Years Ago", highlights the album's narrative and thematic complexity.

Conclusion

In essence, All Things Must Pass transcends its status as a post-Beatles album, solidifying George Harrison's position as a significant figure in rock music. Through the diverse collaborations and the timeless musical arrangements, this album encapsulates Harrison's artistic ambitions and personal growth, ensuring its place in the annals of music history.