George Harrison, known as "the quiet Beatle," was the lead guitarist of the Beatles and played a crucial role in expanding the band's musical boundaries. He incorporated Indian instrumentation and spirituality into their music, influencing a generation of musicians. While Lennon and McCartney were the primary songwriters, Harrison contributed significantly with iconic songs like "Taxman," "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," and "Something." His musical influences ranged from George Formby and Django Reinhardt to Carl Perkins and Chuck Berry.
1909: Birth of Harold Harrison
George Harrison's father, Harold Harrison, was born in 1909.
1911: Birth of Louise Harrison (Mother)
George Harrison's mother, Louise Harrison, was born in 1911.
August 1931: Birth of Louise Harrison
George Harrison's sister, Louise, was born in August 1931.
1934: Birth of Harold Harrison (Brother)
George Harrison's brother, Harold, was born in 1934.
July 1940: Birth of Peter Harrison
George Harrison's brother, Peter, was born in July 1940.
1948: Enrollment at Dovedale Primary School
Harrison began attending Dovedale Primary School at the age of five in 1948.
1949: Move to Upton Green
The Harrison family moved to 25 Upton Green in Speke in 1949.
1954: Enrollment at Liverpool Institute High School
Harrison attended Liverpool Institute High School for Boys from 1954 to 1959.
1955: Harrison Attends His First Race
At the age of 12, Harrison attended his first race, the British Grand Prix, held in Aintree in 1955.
1956: Discovery of Elvis Presley
Hearing Elvis Presley's "Heartbreak Hotel" in 1956 sparked Harrison's passion for rock and roll.
March 1958: Audition for the Quarrymen
Harrison auditioned for John Lennon and Paul McCartney's band, the Quarrymen, in March 1958.
1958: Early Guitars
When Harrison joined the Quarrymen in 1958, he used a Höfner President Acoustic guitar, which he later traded for a Höfner Club 40 model. His first solid-body electric guitar was a Czech-built Jolana Futurama/Grazioso.
1959: Leaving Liverpool Institute
Harrison left Liverpool Institute in 1959.
1960: The Beatles' First Hamburg Residency
During 1960, The Beatles, engaged by promoter Allan Williams, undertook their debut residency at Hamburg's Indra and Kaiserkeller clubs, both under the ownership of Bruno Koschmider. The residency was cut short due to Harrison's deportation for being underage for nightclub employment.
1960: First Tour of Scotland
The Quarrymen, with Harrison, went on their first tour of Scotland in 1960.
December 1961: Brian Epstein Becomes The Beatles' Manager
In December 1961, Brian Epstein took on the role of The Beatles' manager, refining their image and securing a pivotal recording contract with EMI, a significant turning point in their career.
1961: Gretsch Guitars
In 1961, Harrison began using Gretsch guitars, primarily playing a Gretsch Duo Jet through a Vox amplifier, which he purchased secondhand and later featured on the album cover of his 1987 album "Cloud Nine".
1961: Early Guitar Influences and "Cry for a Shadow"
The Beatles recorded the instrumental "Cry for a Shadow" in 1961, showcasing Harrison's developing guitar style influenced by blues and English groups like the Shadows.
1962: Unauthorized Recordings Legal Battle
Harrison actively participated in a legal battle in May 1998 concerning unauthorized recordings of a Beatles' performance at the Star-Club in Hamburg in 1962, highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect their musical legacy.
August 1963: Writing 'Don't Bother Me'
In August 1963, while sick in a hotel bed in Bournemouth, George Harrison wrote his first song, 'Don't Bother Me', as an exercise to see if he could write a song. This marked the beginning of his songwriting career.
1963: Beatlemania Emerges
By early 1963, the phenomenon known as Beatlemania swept the music scene as The Beatles released their debut album, "Please Please Me". The album followed their hit single "Love Me Do", which reached number 17 on the Record Retailer chart.
1963: Acquisition of Rickenbacker 425 Fireglo
Harrison acquired a Rickenbacker 425 Fireglo guitar in 1963.
1963: Release of "He's So Fine"
The Chiffons released their hit song "He's So Fine" in 1963. This song would later become central to a copyright lawsuit against George Harrison, alleging similarities with his song "My Sweet Lord."
1963: First Beatle to Visit the United States
George Harrison became the first Beatle to visit the United States in 1963 when he traveled to Benton, Illinois, to see his sister.
1964: Developing a Personal Style
By 1964, Harrison's guitar playing exhibited a distinctive style, characterized by the use of nonresolving tones, as demonstrated in songs like "A Hard Day's Night."
1964: Harrison Labeled "The Quiet Beatle"
During The Beatles' arrival in the United States in early 1964, Harrison, battling Strep throat and fever, was advised to minimize speaking. His resulting quiet demeanor led the press to coin the nickname "the quiet Beatle", a moniker that amused Harrison.
1964: Harrison Develops Passion for Cars
George Harrison had a passion for sports cars and motor racing, which was evident in his ownership of one of the 100 McLaren F1 road cars produced. His interest in racing extended back to his youth, as he collected photos of race car drivers and their vehicles.
1964: Notable Gretsch and Rickenbacker Guitars
In 1964, Harrison used a Gretsch Tennessean and a Gretsch Country Gentleman for the Beatles' performance on "The Ed Sullivan Show" and the recording of "She Loves You". He also obtained a Rickenbacker 360/12 guitar, becoming the second owner of this model.
1964: Harrison Meets Future Wife Pattie Boyd on Film Set
In 1964, during the filming of "A Hard Day's Night," George Harrison crossed paths with Pattie Boyd, who was then 19 years old and playing the role of a schoolgirl in the film. It was during this production that they first met.
January 1965: Harrison Purchases Aston Martin DB5
In January 1965, George Harrison purchased a 1964 Aston Martin DB5, a car he had bought new.
June 1965: Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire
In June 1965, George Harrison, along with his fellow Beatles members, was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
August 1965: Introduction to Indian Classical Music
In August 1965, during the Beatles' American tour, George Harrison was introduced to Indian classical music by David Crosby. This meeting sparked Harrison's lifelong fascination with the sitar and led to his significant contributions to incorporating Indian instrumentation into rock music.
1965: Innovative Guitar Techniques on "Rubber Soul"
Harrison's innovative use of a capo on an acoustic guitar, as heard on the Beatles' 1965 album "Rubber Soul" and the song "Here Comes the Sun," created a distinctively bright and sweet sound.
1965: Harrison's Musical Explorations with the Beatles
In 1965, George Harrison introduced the sitar to the Beatles' music, showcasing his growing interest in Indian classical music.
1965: First Fender Stratocaster
In 1965, Harrison acquired his first Fender Stratocaster and used it during the recording sessions for the Beatles' albums "Help!" and "Rubber Soul", notably on the song "Nowhere Man".
1965: Experimentation with Expression Pedal
In 1965, Harrison incorporated an expression pedal to manipulate his guitar's volume, creating unique effects in songs like "I Need You" and "Yes It Is."
1965: Songwriting Contributions to Beatles Albums
From 1965 onwards, George Harrison contributed at least two songs to most Beatles albums. His three songs on 'Revolver' marked his emergence as a mature songwriter within the band.
1965: Harrison's Influence on The Beatles' Sound
By 1965, during the recording of "Rubber Soul", Harrison's interest in folk rock, inspired by artists like The Byrds and Bob Dylan, and Indian classical music, evident in his sitar playing on "Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)", began to shape The Beatles' musical direction.
1965: Harrison's Growing Influence in the Beatles
By 1965, George Harrison's interest in folk rock and Indian classical music began to influence the Beatles' music.
January 1966: Harrison Marries Pattie Boyd
On January 21, 1966, George Harrison married Pattie Boyd, with Paul McCartney taking on the role of best man.
June 1966: Meeting Ravi Shankar
In June 1966, George Harrison met Ravi Shankar at the home of Mrs. Angadi of the Asian Music Circle and asked to be his student. This meeting led to Harrison's serious study of the sitar, marking a significant improvement in his performance on the instrument.
1966: Harrison's Shifting Interests
By late 1966, Harrison's interests began to shift away from The Beatles, reflected in his choices for the "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album cover, where he included Eastern gurus and religious figures.
1966: Harrison's Spiritual Journey Impacts Music Industry
In 1966, Harrison's embrace of spirituality, unlike Cliff Richard's conversion to Christianity that same year, was recognized as a significant and profound shift. It reflected the growing maturity within popular music, challenging the prevailing belief that musicians were merely entertainers.
1966: Harrison Delves into Hindu Teachings
After receiving religious texts from Ravi Shankar in 1966, George Harrison became a dedicated follower of the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda.
1966: The Great Sitar Explosion
In 1966, following his introduction to the sitar, George Harrison's use of the instrument on the Beatles' song 'Norwegian Wood' triggered what was called 'The Great Sitar Explosion', bringing Indian instrumentation into mainstream rock music.
1966: Harrison Embraces Indian Culture and Mysticism
By the mid-1960s, Harrison developed a deep admiration for Indian culture and mysticism. In 1966, he embarked on a significant pilgrimage to India with his then-wife, Pattie Boyd, marking a turning point in his spiritual journey.
1966: Epiphone Casinos and Gibson Guitars
In 1966, Harrison and John Lennon both purchased Epiphone Casinos, which they used extensively on the Beatles' album "Revolver". During the recording of this album, Harrison also utilized a Gibson J-160E and a Gibson SG Standard.
1966: Innovative Contributions to "Revolver"
Harrison introduced groundbreaking musical ideas to the Beatles' 1966 album "Revolver," such as backwards guitar on "I'm Only Sleeping" and a distinctive counter-melody on "And Your Bird Can Sing."
1966: Marriage to Pattie Boyd
George Harrison married model Pattie Boyd in 1966.
1966: Harrison's Exploration of Indian Music
Harrison's fascination with Indian music took center stage in The Beatles' 1966 album "Revolver". His sitar and tabla-infused composition "Love You To" marked a significant exploration of the genre, setting a new precedent in popular music for its respectful representation of Asian culture. The album also featured two more of his compositions, "Taxman" and "I Want to Tell You", showcasing his growing songwriting prowess.
1967: The Beatles Embrace Transcendental Meditation
Initiated by Harrison, The Beatles embraced Transcendental Meditation in 1967, reflecting their growing spirituality.
1967: Fusion of Pop and Indian Music
In 1967, George Harrison's song 'Within You Without You' was recognized as a quintessential fusion of pop and Indian music. John Lennon praised it as one of Harrison's best compositions.
1967: Harrison's Indian Influence on "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"
In 1967, Harrison's sole contribution to "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" was the Indian-inspired "Within You Without You". He performed sitar and tambura on the track, accompanied by musicians from the London Asian Music Circle playing dilruba, swarmandal, and tabla, further pushing the boundaries of The Beatles' sound.
1967: Psychedelic Stratocaster
Harrison painted his Fender Stratocaster with a psychedelic design, featuring the word "Bebopalula" above the pickguard and the nickname "Rocky" on the headstock. This guitar was prominently featured in the 1967 film "Magical Mystery Tour" and throughout his solo career.
January 1968: Harrison's "The Inner Light" Released
In January 1968, Harrison's song "The Inner Light", recorded in Bombay with traditional Indian musicians, was released as the B-side to Paul McCartney's "Lady Madonna". This marked the first time a Harrison composition was featured on a Beatles single. The song, with lyrics inspired by the Tao Te Ching, reflected Harrison's growing interest in Hinduism and meditation.
July 1968: Gift of "Lucy" from Eric Clapton
In July 1968, Eric Clapton gifted Harrison a Gibson Les Paul, which had been stripped of its original finish and stained cherry red. Harrison affectionately nicknamed this guitar "Lucy".
November 1968: Harrison Releases Debut Solo Album
November 1968 marked a milestone for Harrison with the release of his debut solo album, "Wonderwall Music". A soundtrack to the film "Wonderwall", the album broke new ground as the first solo release by a Beatle and the inaugural LP on Apple Records. The album, featuring Indian musicians Aashish Khan and Shivkumar Sharma, showcased Harrison's experimental side, blending Western and Indian instrumentation.
1968: Promotion of "Yellow Submarine" Reissue
Harrison was actively involved in promoting the reissue of the animated Beatles film "Yellow Submarine" in 1998, emphasizing his dedication to the band's legacy.
1968: The Beatles' Spiritual Retreat in Rishikesh
In 1968, Harrison, along with his fellow Beatles members, travelled to Rishikesh, India, to delve into meditation under the guidance of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
1968: Return to Guitar Playing
In 1968, after discussing with Ravi Shankar and an encounter with Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison decided to return to guitar playing, realizing that he would not become a great sitar player. He continued to incorporate Indian instrumentation into his solo albums.
1968: Harrison Connects with Bob Dylan and The Band
While visiting Woodstock in late 1968, Harrison formed a friendship with Bob Dylan and found himself drawn to The Band's collaborative approach to music-making, a stark contrast to the dynamic within The Beatles, further influencing his artistic perspective.
1968: Collaborations with Other Musicians
From 1968 onwards, George Harrison collaborated with various musicians, including Eric Clapton and John Barham on his debut solo album 'Wonderwall Music'. He continued to work with artists like Dave Mason, Nicky Hopkins, and Billy Preston.
January 1969: Harrison Briefly Exits The Beatles
During the filming of "Let It Be" in January 1969, tensions within The Beatles reached a boiling point. Harrison, unhappy with the creative atmosphere and dynamics within the band, briefly quit on January 10th. He rejoined 12 days later after the band agreed to relocate the filming to their own Apple Studio.
December 1969: Touring with Delaney & Bonnie and Friends
In December 1969, Harrison joined Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, a band that included Eric Clapton, Bobby Whitlock, and Jim Gordon, on a brief European tour. This experience marked the beginning of Harrison's exploration of slide guitar and inspired the writing of "My Sweet Lord."
1969: Recognition as a Songwriter
In 1969, George Harrison's songwriting skills earned full respect from his bandmates John Lennon and Paul McCartney. McCartney acknowledged that Harrison's songs were now as good as theirs, signifying Harrison's growth as a songwriter.
1969: Co-writing 'Badge' with Eric Clapton
In 1969, George Harrison co-wrote the song 'Badge' with Eric Clapton, which was included on Cream's album 'Goodbye'. Harrison played rhythm guitar on the track under the pseudonym 'L'Angelo Misterioso'.
1969: Acquisition and Gift of Gibson Jumbo J-200
Around 1968, Harrison acquired a Gibson Jumbo J-200 acoustic guitar, which he later gifted to Bob Dylan, who used it at the 1969 Isle of Wight Festival.
1969: Harrison Produces "Hare Krishna Mantra"
In mid-1969, Harrison took on the role of producer for the single "Hare Krishna Mantra." The track featured the musical talents of members from the London Radha Krishna Temple.
1969: The Beatles' Final Concert
The year 1969 marked a pivotal moment for the Beatles as they held their last concert, making Harrison's 1992 performance at the Royal Albert Hall his first solo appearance on that stage since.
1969: Harrison's Songwriting Shines on "Abbey Road"
The release of The Beatles' "Abbey Road" in 1969 saw Harrison's songwriting talent come to the forefront. The album included two of his most celebrated compositions, "Here Comes the Sun" and "Something", marking a significant moment in his artistic development.
January 1970: Harrison's Final Recording Session with The Beatles
Harrison participated in his final recording session as a Beatle on January 4, 1970, joining Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr to add overdubs to the song "Let It Be" for its soundtrack album.
May 1970: Recording with Bob Dylan
In May 1970, George Harrison played guitar on several songs during a recording session for Bob Dylan's album 'New Morning', continuing his trend of collaborating with other influential musicians.
May 1970: "For You Blue" Tops the Charts
In May 1970, Harrison's song "For You Blue", released as a double A-side single in the US with Paul McCartney's "The Long and Winding Road", reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100, further highlighting his growing success as a solo artist.
1970: Release of "All Things Must Pass"
Following the Beatles' breakup in 1970, Harrison released his critically acclaimed triple album, "All Things Must Pass".
1970: Support for Bangladesh Relief Efforts
Following the devastating 1970 Bhola cyclone and the Bangladesh Liberation War, Harrison became actively involved in raising awareness and funds to support the people of Bangladesh.
1970: Death of Louise Harrison (Mother)
George Harrison's mother, Louise Harrison, passed away in 1970.
1970: "Let It Be" Documentary Released
In 1970, the documentary "Let It Be", capturing the tumultuous recording sessions of the album of the same name, was released, providing an intimate look into the internal dynamics and creative tensions within The Beatles.
1970: Last Beatles Single Before Anthology
The year 1970 marked the release of the Beatles' final single before their Anthology reunion in 1995, highlighting the significance of their return to the studio.
1970: "Something" Achieves Chart Success
In 1970, "Something" was released as a double A-side single with "Come Together", reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and West Germany. The single's success solidified Harrison's place as a songwriter.
August 1971: The Concert for Bangladesh
Harrison organized the Concert for Bangladesh, a two-show charity event held at Madison Square Garden in August 1971. The concert, featuring Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and others, raised funds and awareness for refugees of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
1971: "Bangla Desh" Charity Single and Concert for Bangladesh
In 1971, Harrison released "Bangla Desh", pop music's first charity single, to raise funds for Bangladesh relief. He also spearheaded the Concert for Bangladesh, a groundbreaking charity event that garnered significant attention and financial support for the cause.
1971: Academy Award for Let It Be
The Beatles, including George Harrison, won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for their film "Let It Be" in 1971.
1971: Collaboration on John Lennon's 'Imagine'
In 1971, George Harrison contributed to John Lennon's album 'Imagine', including a slide guitar solo on 'Gimme Some Truth' and dobro on 'Crippled Inside', showcasing his instrumental versatility.
1971: Production of "Raga" and "Concert for Bangladesh"
In 1971, Harrison produced Ravi Shankar's documentary "Raga", releasing it through Apple Films. He also co-produced the "Concert for Bangladesh" film with Apple manager Allen Klein.
1971: Release of "All Things Must Pass"
Harrison released his critically acclaimed triple album, "All Things Must Pass," in 1971. The album, featuring hits like "My Sweet Lord" and "What Is Life," topped charts internationally and is widely regarded as his finest work.
1971: The Concert for Bangladesh
Harrison organized the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971 with Ravi Shankar, a pioneering event for future benefit concerts.
June 1972: UNICEF "Child Is the Father of Man" Award
In June 1972, Harrison, Ravi Shankar, and Allen Klein received the UNICEF "Child Is the Father of Man" award in recognition of their remarkable fundraising efforts for Bangladesh.
1972: Collaboration with Harry Nilsson
In 1972, George Harrison collaborated with Harry Nilsson on the song 'You're Breakin' My Heart', contributing to his extensive list of musical partnerships.
1972: Harrison Donates Mansion to Hare Krishna Devotees
In 1972, George Harrison donated his mansion in Letchmore Heath, located north of London, to the Hare Krishna devotees. This generous act led to the mansion's transformation into a temple, later renamed Bhaktivedanta Manor.
1972: Release of "The Concert for Bangladesh" Album and Film
In December 1972, a triple album recording of the Concert for Bangladesh was released and was followed by a concert film the next year. Credited to "George Harrison and Friends," the album achieved commercial success and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
1973: Production of "Little Malcolm"
Harrison took on the role of producer for the feature film "Little Malcolm" in 1973. However, the project faced challenges and was ultimately shelved due to legal complications surrounding the Beatles' separation from their business manager, Allen Klein.
1973: Release of "Living in the Material World"
Harrison's album "Living in the Material World" was released in 1973, reaching number one on the Billboard charts for five weeks. The album, featuring the hit single "Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)", prominently showcased Harrison's Hindu beliefs.
1973: Work with Cheech & Chong
In 1973, George Harrison worked with Cheech & Chong on their song 'Basketball Jones', adding to his diverse range of musical collaborations.
1973: Introduction to Denis O'Brien
In 1973, Peter Sellers introduced Harrison to Denis O'Brien, marking the beginning of their business partnership.
November 1974: The Dark Horse Tour
Harrison embarked on his first solo tour of North America, the Dark Horse Tour, in November 1974. The tour, featuring Billy Preston, Tom Scott, and Ravi Shankar, received mixed reviews. While some appreciated its uniqueness, others criticized the length of Shankar's sets and Harrison's altered Beatles lyrics.
November 1974: White House Visit
During his Dark Horse Tour, Harrison, along with other members of his touring party, visited the White House on November 16, 1974, at the invitation of Jack Ford, son of President Gerald Ford.
1974: Harrison Jokes About McCartney's Impact on His Guitar Playing
In a 1974 BBC radio interview, George Harrison humorously remarked that Paul McCartney had "ruined me as a guitar player," although he also acknowledged the enduring bond between them.
1974: Harrison's Previous Tour
The year 1974 marked the last time Harrison had embarked on a tour before his 1991 tour with Eric Clapton, highlighting the significance of this return to the stage.
1974: Founding Dark Horse Records
In 1974, George Harrison founded Dark Horse Records to collaborate with other musicians and provide a creative outlet for artists. The label's first acts included Ravi Shankar and the duo Splinter.
1974: Harrison Reflects on Relationship with John Lennon
In 1974, Harrison described his relationship with John Lennon as complex, acknowledging both his admiration and frustration with his former bandmate.
1974: Harrison Meets Future Wife Olivia
George Harrison first encountered Olivia, his future wife, in 1974 while she was working at A&M Records.
1974: Harrison and Boyd Separate
In 1974, Harrison and Boyd's marriage came to an end, with Boyd citing Harrison's infidelity as a primary factor in their separation.
1974: Founding of Dark Horse Records
Harrison established his own record label, Dark Horse Records, in 1974.
1975: Collaboration with Tom Scott
In 1975, Harrison collaborated with musician Tom Scott on Scott's album "New York Connection".
1975: Release of "Extra Texture (Read All About It)"
"Extra Texture (Read All About It)," Harrison's final studio album with EMI and Apple Records, was released in 1975. Despite the success of the singles "You" and "This Guitar (Can't Keep From Crying)," Harrison later expressed dissatisfaction with the album, which he recorded during a personally challenging period.
1976: Release of "Thirty Three & 1/3" and "SNL" Performance
In 1976, Harrison released "Thirty Three & 1/3," his first album on his own Dark Horse Records label. The album, featuring hits "This Song" and "Crackerbox Palace," was well-received, garnering positive reviews. In support of the album, Harrison made a memorable appearance and performance on "Saturday Night Live" with Paul Simon.
1976: Copyright Infringement Case
In 1976, a United States district court ruled that Harrison had subconsciously plagiarized the melody of "He's So Fine" in his song "My Sweet Lord." This ruling stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Bright Tunes, the publishers of "He's So Fine," in 1971.
1976: Start of "Best of Dark Horse" Compilation Period
The year 1976 marked the beginning of the period covered by Harrison's compilation album, "Best of Dark Horse 1976–1989," highlighting an era of his solo career.
1977: Divorce from Pattie Boyd
Harrison and Boyd divorced in 1977.
1977: Harrison and Boyd's Divorce Finalized
In 1977, George Harrison and Pattie Boyd's divorce was finalized.
August 1978: Dhani Harrison Born
Dhani Harrison, George and Olivia's son, was born on August 1, 1978.
September 1978: Harrison Marries Olivia Trinidad Arias
On September 2, 1978, George Harrison married Olivia Trinidad Arias, who worked as a marketing executive for A&M Records and later for Dark Horse Records.
1978: Co-founding of HandMade Films
In 1978, Harrison co-founded HandMade Films, marking his foray into film production.
1978: Harrison Honors Racing Drivers with "Faster"
Following the passing of Swedish driver Gunnar Nilsson from cancer in 1978, George Harrison released the song "Faster" as a tribute to Formula One racing drivers Jackie Stewart and Ronnie Peterson, with proceeds going to the Gunnar Nilsson cancer charity.
1978: Formation of HandMade Films
In 1978, Harrison and Denis O'Brien founded the film production and distribution company HandMade Films to produce Monty Python's "Life of Brian" after EMI Films withdrew funding.
1978: Death of Harold Harrison
George Harrison's father, Harold Harrison, passed away in 1978.
1978: Harrison: "The Maharaja of Raga-Rock"
Following his increasing incorporation of the sitar, notably after "Norwegian Wood", Harrison earned the nickname "the maharaja of raga-rock", coined by author Nicholas Schaffner in 1978, cementing his influence in popularizing Indian music elements in Western music.
1979: Pattie Boyd Marries Eric Clapton
Following her separation from Harrison, Pattie Boyd entered into a relationship with Eric Clapton, and they eventually married in 1979.
1979: Frank Sinatra Praises "Something"
Frank Sinatra's recording of "Something" in 1979, which he dubbed "the greatest love song of the past fifty years", further cemented its legacy as one of Harrison's most enduring compositions.
1979: Production of "The Life of Brian"
HandMade Films' first major production was the Monty Python film "The Life of Brian" in 1979.
1979: Release of "George Harrison" Album
In 1979, George Harrison released his self-titled album, "George Harrison." This album followed significant life events, including his second marriage and the birth of his son, Dhani. Notably, the album featured the popular single "Blow Away."
December 1980: John Lennon's Murder
The music world was shaken in December 1980 by the murder of John Lennon. This event deeply affected George Harrison, who had a long history with Lennon as bandmates in the Beatles.
1980: Release of "The Long Good Friday"
HandMade Films' first film distribution was "The Long Good Friday", released in 1980.
1980: Activism and Environmental Support
From 1980 onward, Harrison became a vocal advocate for various causes, including supporting Greenpeace, CND, and protesting against nuclear energy with Friends of the Earth. He also contributed financially to "Vole", an environmentally focused magazine launched by Monty Python member Terry Jones.
1981: Release of "Somewhere in England"
In 1981, Harrison released the album "Somewhere in England," which included the single "All Those Years Ago." This song, a tribute to John Lennon, featured Paul and Linda McCartney and Ringo Starr, making it a meaningful musical reunion.
1981: Contributions to Various Artists
Harrison contributed to several musical projects in 1981. He played guitar on Mick Fleetwood's song "Walk a Thin Line" from the album "The Visitor" and wrote and produced the US top 40 hit "Wrack My Brain" for Ringo Starr's solo career.
1981: Production and Success of "Time Bandits"
HandMade Films produced "Time Bandits", a film co-written by Monty Python members Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin, which became one of their most successful and critically acclaimed projects. The film featured Harrison's song "Dream Away" in the closing credits.
1982: Hawaiian Influence in 'Gone Troppo'
In 1982, a Hawaiian influence is notable in George Harrison's music, especially in his slide guitar work on the album 'Gone Troppo'. This period showcases Harrison's unique slide approach and his admiration for Hawaiian music.
1982: Release of "Gone Troppo"
Harrison released "Gone Troppo" in 1982, an album that, unfortunately, did not resonate significantly with critics or the public, marking a period of relative quiet in his solo career.
1984: Executive Producer on "A Private Function"
Harrison served as executive producer for the film "A Private Function" in 1984.
1984: Celestial Objects Named After Harrison
In 1984, both a minor planet, 4149 Harrison, and a variety of Dahlia flower were named in honor of George Harrison.
1985: Performance at Carl Perkins Tribute
In 1985, Harrison made a special appearance at a tribute concert for Carl Perkins called "Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session," showcasing his respect for fellow musicians.
March 1986: Surprise Appearance at Birmingham Heart Beat Charity Concert
Harrison surprised fans in March 1986 with an appearance at the Birmingham Heart Beat Charity Concert, an event aimed at raising funds for the Birmingham Children's Hospital.
1986: Executive Producer and Cameo Appearances
Harrison served as executive producer for "Mona Lisa" and "Shanghai Surprise" in 1986, making a cameo appearance as a nightclub singer in the latter, for which he recorded five new songs.
February 1987: Performance with Bob Dylan and Taj Mahal
In February 1987, Harrison shared the stage with Bob Dylan, John Fogerty, and Jesse Ed Davis in a performance with blues musician Taj Mahal, showcasing his versatility and love for collaboration.
November 1987: Release of "Cloud Nine" Album
Harrison returned to the music scene in November 1987 with "Cloud Nine," a platinum-selling album that featured the chart-topping single "Got My Mind Set on You." The album marked a successful collaboration with Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra.
1987: Executive Producer on "Withnail and I"
Harrison served as executive producer for the film "Withnail and I" in 1987.
1987: Gretsch Duo Jet on "Cloud Nine" Album Cover
Harrison's 1961 Gretsch Duo Jet was featured on the album cover of his 1987 solo album, "Cloud Nine".
December 1988: Roy Orbison's Death
The Traveling Wilburys faced a significant loss with the death of Roy Orbison in December 1988.
1988: Formation of the Traveling Wilburys
Harrison co-founded the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys in 1988.
1988: "When We Was Fab" Music Video Nominations
The music video for Harrison's single "When We Was Fab," a nostalgic look back at the Beatles, garnered two MTV Music Video Awards nominations in 1988, demonstrating his lasting impact on music and video.
1989: Guest Appearance in Tom Petty's Music Video and Release of Compilation Album
Harrison continued his collaborations in 1989 by appearing in Tom Petty's music video for "I Won't Back Down." He also released "Best of Dark Horse 1976–1989," a compilation album that revisited his solo work and included new material.
1989: Executive Producer on "How to Get Ahead in Advertising"
Harrison served as executive producer for the film "How to Get Ahead in Advertising" in 1989.
October 1990: Release of "Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3"
The Traveling Wilburys, now a four-piece, released their second album, "Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3," in October 1990. This marked their final recording together.
1990: Romanian Angel Appeal
Harrison actively participated in promoting his wife Olivia's Romanian Angel Appeal, a humanitarian effort aimed at aiding Romanian orphans who were abandoned following the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe. In support of this cause, Harrison recorded the benefit single "Nobody's Child" with the Traveling Wilburys and curated a fundraising album featuring contributions from prominent artists like Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Donovan, and Van Morrison.
1990: Guest Appearance on Bob Dylan's Album
Harrison played slide guitar on the title track of Bob Dylan's album "Under the Red Sky" in 1990.
December 1991: Tour of Japan with Eric Clapton
Harrison embarked on a tour of Japan with Eric Clapton in December 1991. This marked Harrison's first tour since 1974, making it a significant event for fans.
1991: Closure of HandMade Films
Facing financial difficulties due to a series of box office failures and excessive debt, HandMade Films ceased operations in 1991.
1991: Formby Convention Performance
In 1991, George Harrison performed at a Formby convention and served as the honorary president of the George Formby Appreciation Society, highlighting his admiration for George Formby and his dedication to the ukulele.
April 1992: Benefit Concert for the Natural Law Party
In April 1992, Harrison showed his support for the Natural Law Party by performing a benefit concert at the Royal Albert Hall, marking his first solo performance in London since the Beatles' final concert in 1969.
October 1992: Performance at Bob Dylan Tribute Concert
Harrison joined a star-studded lineup in October 1992 for a Bob Dylan tribute concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City, showcasing his respect for Dylan's influence on music.
December 1992: Billboard Century Award Recipient
George Harrison received the Billboard Century Award in December 1992, recognizing his significant contributions to music, including pioneering world music and promoting the spiritual aspects of popular music.
1992: Televised Ukulele Performance
In 1992, George Harrison delivered a televised performance of the Cab Calloway standard 'Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea' on the ukulele, further demonstrating his versatility and Hawaiian influences in his music.
1994: Start of the Beatles Anthology Project
In 1994, Harrison reunited with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and producer Jeff Lynne to work on the Beatles Anthology project. This project involved recording new Beatles songs from John Lennon's demos and reflecting on their time as a band.
December 1995: Release of "Free as a Bird"
December 1995 saw the release of "Free as a Bird," the first new Beatles single since 1970. The song, constructed from a John Lennon demo, marked a poignant return for the band and was met with global excitement.
March 1996: Release of "Real Love"
The Beatles, in their Anthology formation, released another single, "Real Love," in March 1996, further extending their legacy and captivating audiences with their reunion.
1996: Sale of HandMade Films and Lawsuit
HandMade Films was sold to Paragon Entertainment, a Canadian corporation, in 1996. Following the sale, Harrison sued Denis O'Brien for $25 million, alleging fraud and negligence, which resulted in an $11.6 million judgment in his favor.
1996: Collaboration with Carl Perkins
In 1996, Harrison recorded the song "Distance Makes No Difference With Love" with Carl Perkins for Perkins' album "Go Cat Go!".
May 1997: Collaboration on "Chants of India" and TV Appearance
Harrison's final televised performance took place in May 1997 during a VH-1 special promoting "Chants of India," his collaborative album with Ravi Shankar. Sadly, Harrison's health declined shortly after, and he was diagnosed with throat cancer.
1997: Legacy of Indian Music Fusion
In 1997, it was noted that George Harrison's sincere involvement with Indian music left a lasting impact, with his 'Indian' songs like 'Blue Jay Way' and 'The Inner Light' remaining the most imaginative and successful examples of this type of fusion.
January 1998: Performance at Carl Perkins' Funeral
In a touching tribute, Harrison honored Carl Perkins by performing "Your True Love" at his funeral in January 1998, showcasing their musical bond.
1998: Contributions to Ringo Starr's Album
Harrison contributed guitar overdubs to two tracks on Ringo Starr's album "Vertical Man", released in 1998.
December 1999: Home Invasion and Attack
In December 1999, Harrison and his wife, Olivia, were attacked at their home, Friar Park, by Michael Abram, a 34-year-old man suffering from paranoid schizophrenia. Abram stabbed Harrison multiple times, puncturing a lung and inflicting head injuries.
2000: 30th Anniversary Edition of "All Things Must Pass"
To mark the 30th anniversary of "All Things Must Pass" in 2000, Apple Records released a special edition of the album. Harrison actively participated in promoting this re-release, reflecting on the album's creation and his musical journey.
February 2001: Harrison Addresses Relationship with Paul McCartney
During a Yahoo! online chat in February 2001, George Harrison addressed his sometimes-contentious relationship with Paul McCartney, suggesting that they had matured enough to appreciate each other's strengths and weaknesses.
May 2001: Cancer Surgery
In May 2001, Harrison underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth from one of his lungs. This event raised concerns about his health following the 1999 home invasion.
November 2001: Death
George Harrison passed away at the age of 58 on November 29, 2001, at a property owned by Paul McCartney in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. He was surrounded by his family and close friends.
November 2001: Death of George Harrison
George Harrison passed away in November 2001.
November 2001: Cancer Treatment and Privacy Concerns
Harrison began radiotherapy for lung cancer that had spread to his brain in November 2001 at Staten Island University Hospital. He expressed dissatisfaction over his physician's breach of privacy regarding his health condition.
2001: Death and Cremation of George Harrison
George Harrison died in 2001 at age 58 from cancer. His remains were cremated and scattered in the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.
2001: Guest Appearances and Final Recording
In 2001, Harrison made notable guest appearances on Jeff Lynne and Electric Light Orchestra's comeback album "Zoom" and Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings' song "Love Letters". Additionally, he co-wrote the song "Horse to the Water" with his son Dhani, which was recorded on October 2nd, just eight weeks before his passing, and later appeared on Jools Holland's album "Small World, Big Band".
2002: Abram's Apology
Upon his release from a mental hospital in 2002, Michael Abram, the man who attacked George Harrison in 1999, issued a public apology, expressing remorse for his actions and hoping for forgiveness from the Harrison family.
2002: Concert for George
A tribute concert, "Concert for George," was held at the Royal Albert Hall on the first anniversary of George Harrison's death in 2002, organized by Eric Clapton and featuring performances by many of Harrison's friends and musical collaborators.
2002: Grammy-Winning 'Marwa Blues'
In 2002, Harrison's slide playing on the Grammy-winning instrumental 'Marwa Blues' was noted for its Hawaiian influences and unique melody, showcasing his exceptional slide guitar approach.
2002: Posthumous Album Release
Harrison's final studio album, "Brainwashed," was completed by his son Dhani and Jeff Lynne and released posthumously in 2002.
May 2003: "Any Road" Release
In May 2003, "Any Road," a single from Harrison's posthumous album "Brainwashed," was released and reached number 37 on the UK Singles Chart.
2004: Posthumous Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
George Harrison was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 2004, with the induction performed by his former bandmates Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty.
2004: Posthumous Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Harrison was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his solo career in 2004.
2004: Grammy Award
Harrison's song "Marwa Blues," from his posthumous album "Brainwashed," won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 2004.
2006: Induction into Madison Square Garden Walk of Fame
In 2006, George Harrison was posthumously inducted into the Madison Square Garden Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the Concert for Bangladesh.
June 2007: Death of Peter Harrison
George Harrison's brother, Peter, passed away in June 2007.
December 2007: George Harrison Humanitarian Fund for UNICEF Aids Cyclone Sidr Victims
In December 2007, the George Harrison Humanitarian Fund for UNICEF donated $450,000 to provide aid to the victims of Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh.
April 2009: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
George Harrison was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in front of the Capitol Records Building on April 14, 2009, with family, friends, and fellow musicians present.
October 2009: Ravi Shankar Receives First George Harrison Humanitarian Award
On October 13, 2009, the inaugural George Harrison Humanitarian Award was presented to Ravi Shankar in recognition of his contributions to saving children's lives and his involvement in the Concert for Bangladesh.
October 2011: Release of "George Harrison: Living in the Material World"
A documentary film about George Harrison's life and career, titled "George Harrison: Living in the Material World" and directed by Martin Scorsese, was released in October 2011, featuring interviews with family, friends, and fellow musicians.
December 2011: Harrison's Aston Martin DB5 Sold at Auction
On December 7, 2011, George Harrison's 1964 Aston Martin DB5, which he had purchased new in January 1965, was sold at auction in London for £350,000 to an anonymous Beatles collector.
February 2015: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
George Harrison was posthumously honored with The Recording Academy's Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy Awards in February 2015.
August 2017: Release of Limited Edition George Harrison Rosewood Telecaster
In August 2017, Fender released a limited edition "George Harrison Rosewood Telecaster" as a tribute to Harrison. This guitar was modeled after a Telecaster originally created for Harrison by Roger Rossmeisl.
2017: Mural Unveiled in Harrison, Illinois
A mural created by artist John Cerney, depicting George Harrison, was unveiled in the town of Harrison, Illinois, in 2017.
January 2023: Death of Louise Harrison
George Harrison's sister, Louise, passed away in January 2023.
2023: Release of "Now and Then"
Although the Beatles' attempt to finish the song "Now and Then" during the Anthology project was halted, the track was eventually completed by Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr and released in 2023, providing a final glimpse into the band's creative potential.
2023: Harrison's Ranking in Rolling Stone's Greatest Guitarists
Rolling Stone magazine ranked Harrison 31st on their list of the greatest guitarists of all time in 2023.
May 2024: Blue Plaque Unveiled at Childhood Home
A blue plaque, marking the significance of the location, was unveiled at George Harrison's childhood home at 12 Arnold Grove in Wavertree in May 2024.
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