The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun (1969)

Ah, Here Comes The Sun (1969) by The Beatles. A song that transcends generations, a beacon of optimism woven into the tapestry of popular music. Composed by the quiet Beatle, George Harrison, it marked a turning point not just for him but for the band itself.

Let’s rewind a bit. The year is 1969. The Beatles, arguably the biggest band in the world, were facing internal turmoil. The weight of their fame, creative differences, and the pressures of managing their own record label, Apple Corps, were taking a toll. Harrison, the band’s lead guitarist and often overshadowed by the songwriting duo of Lennon and McCartney, found himself yearning for a creative outlet and a bit of personal escape.

Enter the English spring. After a particularly grueling session and feeling stifled by the business side of things, Harrison decided to skip a day at Apple. He found himself in the picturesque garden of his friend, Eric Clapton, at Hurtwood Edge in Surrey. Basking in the long-awaited sunshine, a stark contrast to the seemingly endless English winter, inspiration struck. Here Comes The Sun was born.

The song itself is a masterclass in simplicity. Harrison’s gentle fingerpicking on his acoustic guitar lays the foundation, joined by Ringo Starr’s steady drumming. Paul McCartney’s melodic bass line weaves through the arrangement, and John Lennon contributes subtle backing vocals. But the true star of the show is Harrison’s voice. Bathed in a sense of serenity, it perfectly captures the joy of emerging from darkness into light, both literally and metaphorically.

Here Comes The Sun is more than just a feel-good song. The lyrics, though seemingly straightforward, paint a vivid picture of hope and renewal. Lines like “Little darling, the smiles returning / To the faces lost and found in stony ground” speak to a sense of resilience and the ability to find beauty even in difficult times. The now-iconic guitar solo, played by Harrison himself, further accentuates this feeling. It’s a burst of sunshine, a joyous melody that soars above the rest of the instrumentation.

The song’s impact is undeniable. Released on The Beatles’ penultimate album, Abbey Road, Here Comes The Sun became an instant classic. It has been covered by countless artists, used in countless films, and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. It’s a testament to Harrison’s songwriting talent and a reminder that even amidst the chaos, there’s always the promise of a brighter day. So, the next time you hear those opening acoustic chords, close your eyes and let Here Comes The Sun wash over you. It’s a simple song, but one that carries a powerful message of hope and optimism, a message we all need from time to time.