George Harrison (1943–2001) was a renowned English musician, singer-songwriter, and music and film producer, best known as the lead guitarist of The Beatles. Born in Liverpool, Harrison was the youngest member of the band. His contributions to The Beatles were initially limited to guitar, but he later grew to be an important songwriter for the group, contributing hits like “Here Comes the Sun” and “Something.”
Harrison’s role in The Beatles was sometimes overshadowed by the prominence of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, but his influence on the band and its music was significant. He introduced elements of Indian music, culture, and spirituality into the band’s work, particularly evident in songs like “Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” and “Within You Without You.”
After the breakup of The Beatles in 1970, Harrison had a successful solo career. He released several acclaimed albums, including “All Things Must Pass” which included hits like “My Sweet Lord” and “What Is Life.” Harrison was also a film producer, founding HandMade Films, which produced several popular movies, including “Monty Python’s Life of Brian.”
Beyond his musical and film endeavors, Harrison was known for his humanitarian work. He organized the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971, one of the first major benefit concerts in history.
Harrison was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Beatles in 1988 and again as a solo artist in 2004. He passed away in 2001 after a battle with lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy as a pivotal figure in the history of popular music.