George Harrison was just a young boy of sixteen when he joined the Beatles. As we all know, this was the four-piece band that changed music forever. Harrison was the final member to join the iconic band, completing their Line-Up. But why was he so young when he joined the Beatles? This article will delve into this question further.
History of George Harrison
George Harrison was born in 1943 in Liverpool, England. He had two older brothers, Harry and Peter, who often took him to performances held by local skiffle musicians. It was here that the young George’s love for music began. It wasn’t long before Harrison had learned the guitar and he joined “The Quarrymen”, an early version of the Beatles.
The seventeen-year-old Harrison had actually met John Lennon, the founder of the group, three years before he joined The Quarrymen. Lennon was impressed by the youngster’s guitar skills and asked him to join the group. Despite his young age, George was clearly a talented musician.
Formation of The Beatles
The Quarrymen were still in their early stage when Harrison joined in 1958. John Lennon had already started jamming with Paul McCartney and Jim McCartney, and when Harrison came in, they decided to manage the group professionally. Stuart Sutcliffe was also a part of the group at the time, but in 1961 he left due to health issues.
The remaining four, John, Paul, George, and Ringo Starr continued and The Beatles were officially formed. From then on, they made history with their music. With Harrison as the youngest of the group, it only strengthened their impact on popular music.
The Beatles’ Achievements & Legacy
Despite being only sixteen when he joined the band, George Harrison quickly proved that he was a key factor in the group’s success. He was a skilled songwriter, and wrote many of the Beatles’ hit songs including “Here Comes The Sun” and “Something”. He was also known for his talented guitar playing, which was essential for the group’s unique sound.
Harrison even received a songwriting award for “Something” in 2000 and was posthumously inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. Even though he was only sixteen when he first came to fame with The Beatles, his legacy lives on today and his talents will be remembered forever.
Impact of The Beatles on Culture
The Beatles and George Harrison’s immense role in the emergence of the British Beat era was a sensational event, and their popular music remains important to British culture today. Many people around the world still know the group’s songs, and there are countless Beatles cover bands that still perform these songs.
The Beatles have also had a lasting influence on many musicians, including David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin. It is interesting to think that a sixteen year old boy was an integral part of this legendary group.
Harrison’s Music After The Beatles
After The Beatles broke up in 1970, George Harrison began his solo career, releasing several solo albums and producing many others. He also formed a supergroup with other popular musicians like Eric Clapton, called “The Traveling Wilburys”. His music received critical acclaim and was seen as a big success, proving that his amazing talents were not just limited to The Beatles’ sound.
Conclusion on the Music Industry
George Harrison’s story shows that age should not be a determining factor when it comes to a person’s potential in the music industry. He was only sixteen years old when he joined the influential “Fab Four”, yet he contributed a lot to the group’s success and their iconic legacy. Perhaps his story provides a good example of what can be achieved at a young age.
Harrison’s Later Life
George Harrison continued his solo career until 2001, when he sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 58. Despite his short life, the former Beatle had an enormous impact on the music industry that will never be forgotten. He was a talented musician and composer and is remembered for being part of the legendary group.
Harrison’s Influence Today
Today, George Harrison is still just as revered as ever. He left behind a legacy of incredible music and inspiring lyrics. His story is an inspiration to many musicians and aspiring artists. His youthful ambition to join The Beatles serves as a reminder to many that age should not limit one’s potential in the music industry.
Other Successes in his Career
Aside from being a successful solo musician, Harrison was also active in the film industry. He created his own record label, Handmade Films, and produced movies such as Life of Brian, Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life, and Time Bandits. He was also involved in politics, and supported causes such as Greenpeace and UNICEF.
In addition, he was an avid supporter of Indian music and culture. His 1974 album, Dark Horse, was the first to use Indian raga scales. This was an incredibly influential moment in music history and it still has an influence on popular music today.
Commemoration of Harrison’s Life
The world still remembers George Harrison for being a part of the Beatles, as well as for his solo career and involvement in other areas outside of music. Organizations in Liverpool such as the city’s airport and primary school are named after him, and many performers and bands still cover his music.
In 2002, Harrison’s former bandmates Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney released an album dedicated to him. The record, titled “Concert for George”, features a star-studded line-up of musicians who all wanted to commemorate Harrison’s life and music. In conclusion, George Harrison was a true music legend whose impact will never be forgotten.
