“Something” is one of The Beatles’ most beloved and iconic tracks, written by George Harrison. It was released on their 1969 album Abbey Road and stands as one of the highlights of Harrison’s songwriting contributions to the band. “Something” is often considered one of the most beautiful love songs in the history of popular music, showcasing Harrison’s growth as a songwriter and his ability to express deep emotion in a simple yet profound way.
Lyrically, “Something” is a love song, but it’s more than just a typical romantic ballad. It speaks to the mysterious, almost ineffable quality of love, as the narrator is captivated by someone and cannot fully explain why they are drawn to them. The song’s famous opening line, “Something in the way she moves”, suggests that the subject of the song possesses an alluring, magnetic quality that can’t be put into words. The lyrics convey the narrator’s admiration and devotion, as well as a sense of longing and desire. The repeated refrain “Something in the way she moves / Attracts me like no other lover” captures the essence of the song’s theme: a deep emotional connection that goes beyond the surface and is difficult to define.
Musically, “Something” is a rich, melodic piece with a slow, tender rhythm. The song begins with a gentle, fingerpicked guitar, played by Harrison himself, which gives it a warm, intimate feel. The arrangement gradually builds, adding lush strings and a subtle rhythm section, creating a sense of depth and emotional intensity. The song features a memorable lead guitar solo, which further enhances its emotional resonance. Harrison’s vocal delivery is sincere and full of emotion, and his voice perfectly complements the song’s tender and reflective tone. The song’s orchestration, arranged by George Martin, elevates the track to a level of sophistication, adding a lush, cinematic quality that enhances the feelings of love and devotion conveyed in the lyrics.
The production of “Something” is polished, yet it retains a sense of intimacy, which allows the song’s emotional impact to shine through. The use of strings and other orchestral elements is subtle but effective, creating a sweeping sound without overpowering the song’s central melody and message. The instrumental arrangement complements Harrison’s vocal performance, creating a balanced and rich sound that has made the song timeless.
“Something” was released as a single, backed with “Come Together,” and it became a major hit for The Beatles, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and the US. It is one of the band’s most successful tracks, showcasing George Harrison’s songwriting ability and his growth as a musician. The song remains one of Harrison’s most enduring contributions to The Beatles‘ catalog and is widely regarded as one of the band’s finest moments.
In conclusion, “Something” is a stunning love song that showcases George Harrison’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to capture the complex emotions of love in a simple, elegant way. The song’s melodic beauty, heartfelt lyrics, and lush arrangement make it one of The Beatles’ most enduring and beloved tracks. It continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest love songs in popular music history, solidifying Harrison‘s place as one of the most respected songwriters of his time.