A Soulful Meditation on Life’s Meaning: George Harrison’s “What Is Life”
In the realm of rock and roll music, George Harrison stands as a towering figure, his songwriting and guitar playing leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Among his vast repertoire, “What Is Life” holds a special place, a soulful ballad that delves into profound questions about the meaning of existence and the nature of love.
Released in 1970 as the lead single from his triple album All Things Must Pass, “What Is Life” showcased Harrison’s growth as a songwriter following the breakup of The Beatles. The song topped charts worldwide, reaching number one in Canada and Australia and peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
Background
The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar riff and Harrison’s warm vocals, setting the stage for a introspective exploration of life’s complexities. The lyrics, penned by Harrison, are imbued with philosophical musings, questioning the nature of reality and the ephemeral nature of human existence.
The chorus is particularly poignant, with Harrison singing:
“What is life? What is life? Is it to make mistakes And learn from them in time? Is it to take a stand And be counted among the living dead? What is life?”
These lines capture the essence of the song’s message, challenging listeners to consider their own values and purpose in life. Harrison’s questioning tone is not one of despair but rather of curiosity and a desire to understand the deeper meaning of existence.
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The song’s arrangement is understated yet elegant, featuring a delicate interplay of acoustic guitar, piano, and strings. The instrumentation serves to complement Harrison’s vocals, creating a mood of quiet contemplation.
“What Is Life” has become a beloved classic, its message of self-reflection and the search for meaning resonating with listeners across generations. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, Eric Clapton, and Aretha Franklin, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Beyond its commercial success, “What Is Life” has garnered critical acclaim for its insightful lyrics, soulful melody, and Harrison’s heartfelt vocals. The song is considered a cornerstone of Harrison’s solo career and a prime example of his ability to craft songs that are both musically and lyrically profound.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by George Harrison.
- It was released in 1970 as the lead single from his album All Things Must Pass.
- The song reached number one in Canada and Australia and peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
- “What Is Life” has been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, Eric Clapton, and Aretha Franklin.