When George Harrison released “Got My Mind Set on You” in 1987, it marked one of the most surprising and triumphant moments of his solo career. After years away from the spotlight, the so-called “quiet Beatle” suddenly had a massive hit — his third and final U.S. No. 1 single — with a cover of a 1962 Rudy Clark song originally recorded by James Ray.
From the opening riff, the track bursts with joy and determination. Harrison’s voice, matured by time but still carrying its unique clarity, delivers the lyrics with conviction: “It’s gonna take money, a whole lotta spending money… it’s gonna take plenty of love to do it right.” In his hands, the words transform from a lighthearted R&B tune into a statement of persistence — about love, effort, and the things truly worth fighting for.
The production, guided by Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra, gives the track its unmistakable 1980s sheen: bright guitars, polished harmonies, and a rhythm section that drives the song forward with irresistible momentum. Yet even with the glossy finish, Harrison’s sincerity shines through. The song never feels overproduced; it feels alive, playful, and full of charm.
The two music videos that accompanied the single only added to its legacy. One, featuring George in an arcade, placed him amid flashing lights and youthful energy, bridging the gap between generations. The other — the famous “living room” video — showed Harrison calmly playing guitar while furniture and objects around him came to life in humorous fashion. Both reflected his understated humor and willingness to poke fun at himself, reminding the world that even as a legend, he didn’t take fame too seriously.
What makes “Got My Mind Set on You” endure is the joy it radiates. It’s not a complex song, nor does it try to be. Its message is simple: love is worth the effort. But delivered by George Harrison, a man known for his spiritual depth and quiet intensity, it feels both playful and profound. It was proof that Harrison could step back into the pop world on his own terms — with warmth, wit, and an undeniable sense of fun.
In the end, “Got My Mind Set on You” isn’t just a hit single. It’s a reminder of George’s versatility: the spiritual seeker who could also top the charts with a joyful, infectious love song. And decades later, it still stands as a testament to his ability to make even the simplest words ring with truth and light.