George Harrison’s Finest Guitar Solo with The Beatles: An In-Depth Analysis

When talking about George Harrison's guitar solos with The Beatles, several songs stand out as particularly memorable. While some may argue that "Something" showcases his finest solo, others point to the early track "I Saw Her Standing There" for its early talent and the legendary "Taxman" for its complex and innovative solo.

The Contenders: "Something" and "Taxman"

"Something" is often cited as George Harrison's finest solo with The Beatles. The track's simple yet effective guitar performance is a testament to Harrison's skill and the emotional depth of the song. However, it is not the only contender. "Taxman" also features a standout solo, which was originally played by Paul McCartney. This solo is notable not only for its complexity but also for the fact that it showcases a different side of McCartney's musical abilities, adding a layer of depth to the song.

Harrison’s Early Talent and "I Saw Her Standing There"

"I Saw Her Standing There" is another strong contender. Written by Paul McCartney and featuring a guitar solo by George Harrison, this track is a prime example of the early talent and innovation that defined The Beatles. The song's guitar work is both complex and emotive, reflecting Harrison's growing skill as a guitarist. Interestingly, this gem was the second song played during The Beatles' famous debut on the Ed Sullivan Show, showcasing the group's early talent and appeal to American audiences.

"Till There Was You": A Breakthrough Moment

Another notable song is "Till There Was You," which highlighted Harrison's immense talent. This track was written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart for the Broadway show The Music Man. Although The Beatles covered the song, they earned more royalties from the recording than the original play. The guitar work and lead vocals by George Harrison and the broken chord progression were so impressive that even George Martin, who usually had a significant influence on the group's sound, signed them to a recording contract. The track's guitar solo is on a very high level and even rivals the jazz stylings of Wes Montgomery.

Indicators of Musical Genius: 1962’s "Till There Was You"

The guitar work in "Till There Was You" is so intricate and sophisticated that one can hardly believe that Harrison accomplished it way back in 1962. The double stops and chord progressions that he used were ahead of their time and reached a level of proficiency that would be difficult to match even today. It is a testament to Harrison's innate musical talent and his ability to adapt quickly to new musical styles.

Conclusion

While opinions on George Harrison's finest guitar solo with The Beatles vary, multiple songs highlight his immense talent and innovation. Whether it is the simple yet powerful solo in "Something, " the complex and innovative work in "Taxman, " the early talent shown in "I Saw Her Standing There, " or the complex and sophisticated solo in "Till There Was You, " Harrison's guitar work is a true reflection of his genius as a musician. The Beatles and George Harrison's legacy continue to inspire musicians and music lovers alike.