Concert For George: A Night To Remember

The Concert for George, held in 2002 (and released as a film in 2003), was a momentous tribute to the legendary George Harrison, organized by his close friend Eric Clapton and widow Olivia Harrison. This wasn't just any concert; it was a gathering of musical titans, all coming together to celebrate the life and music of one of the most beloved figures in rock history. Staged at the Royal Albert Hall in London on November 29, 2002, the event featured an unbelievable lineup of artists who had been touched by George's music and spirit. From fellow Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr to Eric Clapton, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Ravi Shankar, and many more, the stage was filled with talent that spanned genres and generations.

The Concert for George was more than just a musical performance; it was an outpouring of love and respect. Each artist brought their unique style to George's songs, creating renditions that were both faithful and deeply personal. The atmosphere in the Royal Albert Hall that night was electric, filled with a sense of camaraderie and shared grief. The concert opened with a set of Indian classical music, reflecting George's deep connection to and passion for Indian culture, featuring a performance led by Ravi Shankar. This set a tone of reverence and spiritual depth that permeated the entire evening. Following the Indian music, the Western rock and pop artists took to the stage, performing a selection of George's best-known songs, as well as some of his more obscure but equally brilliant compositions. Eric Clapton's rendition of "My Sweet Lord" was particularly moving, as was Jeff Lynne's performance of "Mr. Blue Sky," a song that George had always admired. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers brought their signature energy to songs like "I Need to Know" and "Taxman," while Billy Preston delivered a soulful performance of "Isn't It a Pity."

The emotional heart of the concert, though, undoubtedly belonged to Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Their presence on stage was a powerful reminder of the Beatles' enduring legacy and their deep bond with George. Paul performed several of George's songs, including a heartfelt rendition of "All Things Must Pass," while Ringo joined him for a joyous performance of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," which featured an absolutely blistering guitar solo by Eric Clapton. The concert concluded with a rousing performance of "I'll See You in My Dreams," a song that George had written shortly before his death. As the artists gathered on stage for a final bow, the audience erupted in applause, a testament to the enduring power of George's music and the love that he had inspired in so many people. The Concert for George was a triumph, a celebration of a life well-lived and a reminder of the enduring power of music to heal and inspire. It was a night to remember, not just for those who were lucky enough to be there, but for anyone who has ever been touched by George Harrison's music.

The Lineup: A Gathering of Musical Giants

The sheer star power assembled for the Concert for George was staggering. It wasn't just a collection of musicians; it was a constellation of legends, each bringing their unique talents to honor their friend. Eric Clapton, the driving force behind the event, served as the musical director, ensuring that the performances were both polished and heartfelt. His guitar work throughout the night was nothing short of exceptional, particularly his solo on "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," which many consider to be one of the greatest guitar solos of all time. Jeff Lynne, George's longtime friend and collaborator, also played a key role in organizing the concert and performing many of George's songs. His meticulous production style and keen ear for melody ensured that the performances were faithful to George's original recordings while still bringing something new to the table.

Then, of course, there were the Beatles. Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr's presence on stage was deeply moving, a reminder of the incredible musical journey that they had shared with George. Paul's performances of songs like "All Things Must Pass" and "Something" were particularly poignant, while Ringo's drumming brought a sense of joy and energy to the proceedings. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers brought their signature American rock sound to the concert, performing a selection of George's songs with their usual gusto. Tom Petty's respectful and energetic performance was a highlight, showcasing his deep appreciation for Harrison's songwriting. Billy Preston, a longtime friend and collaborator of the Beatles, delivered a soulful performance of "Isn't It a Pity," a song that he had co-written with George. His powerful vocals and infectious energy brought the house down.

Ravi Shankar, the legendary Indian sitar player, opened the concert with a set of Indian classical music. Shankar's longstanding friendship with Harrison, and their shared passion for Indian music, was a defining influence on both their lives and careers. Other notable performers included Dhani Harrison, George's son, who played acoustic guitar on several songs; Jim Keltner, a renowned session drummer who had played on many of George's albums; and Klaus Voormann, a longtime friend of the Beatles who had designed the cover of their album "Revolver." The lineup of the Concert for George wasn't just a list of names; it was a testament to the incredible impact that George had had on the world of music. Each artist brought their unique talents and memories to the stage, creating a truly unforgettable evening of music and celebration.

The Songs: A Celebration of George's Musical Legacy

The selection of songs performed at the Concert for George was a carefully curated collection of George Harrison's best-known hits, as well as some of his more obscure but equally brilliant compositions. The concert opened with a set of Indian classical music, reflecting George's deep connection to and passion for Indian culture. This set the tone for the evening, highlighting the spiritual depth that permeated so much of George's music. Following the Indian music, the Western rock and pop artists took to the stage, performing a selection of George's songs that spanned his entire career, from his early days with the Beatles to his solo work.

"I Want to Tell You", one of George's early compositions, received a vibrant performance, showcasing the song's classic rock sound. "If I Needed Someone" demonstrated George's evolving songwriting within the Beatles era. "Old Brown Shoe" was delivered with a raw energy that highlighted its rock and roll roots. "Taxman", a sarcastic commentary on taxation, was performed with a fiery intensity. "Here Comes the Sun", one of George's most beloved songs, brought a sense of optimism and joy to the concert. The Beatles' classics were interspersed with George's solo hits, demonstrating the breadth and depth of his musical talent. "My Sweet Lord", George's signature song, was performed with a sense of reverence and spirituality. "Isn't It a Pity", co-written with Billy Preston, was delivered with a soulful passion. "All Things Must Pass", the title track from George's landmark solo album, was performed with a deep sense of emotion. "While My Guitar Gently Weeps", one of George's most iconic songs, featured an absolutely blistering guitar solo by Eric Clapton.

The concert also included performances of some of George's lesser-known songs, giving fans a chance to appreciate the full range of his musical talent. "For You Blue", a simple but heartfelt love song, was performed with a touching sincerity. "Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)", a plea for global harmony, was delivered with a sense of hope and optimism. "Beware of Darkness", a meditative reflection on the challenges of life, was performed with a quiet intensity. The concert concluded with a rousing performance of "I'll See You in My Dreams", a song that George had written shortly before his death. As the artists gathered on stage for a final bow, the audience erupted in applause, a testament to the enduring power of George's music and the love that he had inspired in so many people. The songs performed at the Concert for George were more than just a collection of tunes; they were a celebration of a life well-lived and a reminder of the enduring power of music to heal and inspire.

Legacy: The Enduring Impact of the Concert for George

The Concert for George left an indelible mark on the music world, serving as a powerful reminder of George Harrison's enduring legacy. The concert wasn't just a one-night event; it was a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with fans around the world. The sheer scale of the event, the caliber of the performers, and the emotional intensity of the performances all contributed to its lasting impact.

One of the most significant aspects of the Concert for George's legacy is its role in preserving and celebrating George Harrison's music. The concert brought George's songs to a new generation of fans, reminding them of his incredible talent as a songwriter, guitarist, and singer. The concert also helped to solidify George's place in music history, ensuring that he will be remembered as one of the most important and influential musicians of all time. Beyond its musical significance, the Concert for George also had a profound emotional impact on those who attended or watched the film. The concert was a celebration of life, a tribute to love, and a reminder of the power of music to heal and inspire. It brought together people from all walks of life, united by their shared love for George Harrison and his music.

The Concert for George also had a significant impact on the careers of many of the artists who performed. For some, it was a chance to reconnect with their roots, while for others, it was an opportunity to pay tribute to a friend and mentor. The concert also helped to raise awareness of George Harrison's charitable work, particularly his support for Indian music and culture. All proceeds from the concert and the subsequent film were donated to the Material World Charitable Foundation, an organization that George had founded to support a variety of causes. The enduring legacy of the Concert for George is a testament to the power of music to bring people together, to heal wounds, and to inspire hope. It is a reminder that even in the face of loss, music can provide solace, strength, and a sense of connection. The Concert for George will continue to be remembered as a momentous event in music history, a celebration of a life well-lived, and a tribute to the enduring power of George Harrison's music.