Something – George Harrison & Eric Clapton

About the song

“Something” stands as a defining masterpiece in the Beatles’ repertoire, heralding George Harrison’s emergence as a formidable composer within the band. Penned by Harrison for their iconic 1969 album Abbey Road, the song showcases his maturing songwriting prowess alongside another Harrison classic, “Here Comes the Sun”. Widely regarded by music historians, “Something” marked a significant milestone, elevating Harrison to the esteemed company of the Beatles’ principal songwriters, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

Following the album’s release, “Something” achieved further acclaim as the first Harrison composition to be featured as a Beatles A-side single, paired with “Come Together”. This move, though somewhat unusual in the UK where singles typically featured new material, proved successful internationally, topping the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and charts across Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and West Germany. Despite initial commercial challenges in the UK, where it peaked at number 4, the song’s impact was undeniable, bolstered by its enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

Thematically, “Something” is often interpreted as a love song dedicated to Pattie Boyd, Harrison’s first wife. However, Harrison himself offered alternative inspirations over the years, including spiritual and universal themes. His lyrical depth and emotive melody resonate profoundly, capturing a sense of longing and introspection that transcends personal narratives.

Musically, “Something” captivates with its elegantly simple yet sophisticated arrangement. The song opens with Harrison’s evocative five-note guitar figure, which recurs throughout, framing the verses and closing the track. A standout feature is Harrison’s guitar solo, celebrated by critics as among his finest work, characterized by its melodic richness and emotional depth. The song’s structure shifts seamlessly between the key of C major and A major during the bridge, highlighting Harrison’s harmonic complexity and melodic sensibility.

Beyond its initial acclaim, “Something” has become a perennial favorite, covered by over 150 artists across diverse genres. Shirley Bassey and Frank Sinatra notably found success with their interpretations, underscoring the song’s universal appeal and enduring legacy. Recognized with the Ivor Novello Award and ranked among the greatest songs of all time by publications like Mojo and Rolling Stone, “Something” continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, a testament to Harrison’s enduring influence and artistic vision within the Beatles and beyond.

Video

Lyrics

Something in the way she moves
Attracts me like no other lover
Something in the way she woos me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how
Somewhere in her smile she knows
That I don’t need no other lover
Something in her style that shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how
You’re asking me will my love grow
I don’t know, I don’t know
You stick around, now it may show
I don’t know, I don’t know
Something in the way she knows
And all I have to do is think of her
Something in the things she shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how

Something in the way she moves
Attracts me like no other lover
Something in the way she woos me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how

Somewhere in her smile she knows
That I don’t need no other lover
Something in her style that shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how

You’re asking me will my love grow
I don’t know, I don’t know
You stick around, now it may show
I don’t know, I don’t know

Something in the way she knows
And all I have to do is think of her
Something in the things she shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how