Here Comes the Sun has emerged as one of the most cherished songs in the Beatles' repertoire. Not only does it serve as a delightful introduction for new fans to explore the band's music, but it also encapsulates a unique blend of artistry, personal experience, and innovative production techniques. This article will take you on a detailed journey through the creation of this iconic song, revealing the intriguing anomalies and production quirks that accompany it.
As the second half of the Beatles' legendary Abbey Road album, released in September 1969—the band's final recorded studio album—Here Comes the Sun was crafted by none other than George Harrison. Unlike many other Beatles songs primarily penned by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Harrison brought his distinctive touch to this piece. He composed it during a serene afternoon at Eric Clapton’s country estate, making a conscious decision to forgo a stressful business meeting in favor of enjoying the beauty of an early spring day. Armed with his acoustic guitar, George channeled his sense of peace and joy into what has now become an immortal tune.
The actual recording of Here Comes the Sun began on July 7, 1969, just a week into the Abbey Road sessions. With Ringo Starr on drums, Paul McCartney adding a melodic bass line, and Harrison providing the primary acoustic guitar, the Beatles laid down 13 takes of the rhythm track. Notably absent was John Lennon, who was recuperating from a car accident in Scotland. After recording the basics, George revisited the track the following day to establish his lead vocals, which he'd enhance with harmonies from McCartney.
Harrison’s process involved creating layers of sound and texture, notably incorporating a harmonium and handclaps on July 16. As production continued into August, experimentation with electric guitar added more dimensions to the song. Harrison's choice to use a Leslie speaker (instead of a standard amp) produced a distinctive, swirling electric sound, particularly heard around the 1:15 mark in the final mix.
After finalizing the guitar parts, the iconic orchestral arrangement came into play, thanks to producer George Martin, who worked with session musicians to record beautiful strings and woodwinds. Yet, the most noteworthy addition to the mix was the use of the Moog synthesizer—a revolutionary instrument that Harrison had been eager to utilize after witnessing its capabilities in an earlier project. The lush sounds of the Moog elevate the song further, and it provides additional layers to the rich harmonic structure of Here Comes the Sun.
The blend of woodwinds and Moog sounds created an interesting production quirk: the Moog was recorded over the same track that features the woodwinds, partially erasing it, but preserving enough of the original string arrangement to be discernible at certain moments in the song.
A Masterful Final Touch
Once all the varied elements were in place, mixing began, and it became evident that Here Comes the Sun possessed several post-production anomalies. One particular quirk is the song’s slightly sharp key—an intentional choice known as vari-speed, often favored by the Beatles to create a unique sonic texture. Another interesting discovery occurred around 2006 when a remixed version for the Cirque du Soleil musical LOVE resurrected a line that had been omitted from the final chorus.
Furthermore, the date of the song's mix, August 20, 1969, would forever be marked as the last time all four Beatles convened in the studio, signifying the end of an unparalleled creative journey. The song was strategically placed as the opener for the second half of Abbey Road, transitioning from the heavy I Want You (She’s So Heavy) into the bright optimism of Here Comes the Sun, creating a stark tonal contrast that perfectly reset the mood for the remainder of the album.
There’s an intriguing subplot regarding the thematic connection between Here Comes the Sun and John Lennon’s later track, Sun King. Speculation exists over whether Lennon was inspired by Harrison’s composition or vice versa—an instance highlighting the shared creative synergies within the band. One theory posits that a loose recording from the Get Back sessions captures Lennon seemingly referencing the phrase “here comes the sun,” which later appears in the title of his song.
Nonetheless, the uncertainty surrounding their creative influences remains, as neither Harrison nor Lennon ever publicly addressed this connection. What is clearer, however, is how Harrison’s compositions on Abbey Road marked a pivotal moment in his recognition as a serious songwriter. Producer George Martin acknowledged this shift, and both Lennon and McCartney expressed admiration for Harrison’s work in the years that followed.
Here Comes the Sun’s cultural significance has grown remarkably since its release. Despite initial criticism and the absence of promotion as a single, the song eventually found its place as a beloved classic. It provided solace and hope, emerging from a period of personal turmoil in Harrison's life—a calming reminder that after the darkest winter, the sun inevitably shines again.
George Harrison's creativity continued beyond the Beatles, with performances of Here Comes the Sun becoming highlights of his solo career. The song’s enduring appeal has led it to become one of the most streamed Beatles tracks in recent years, symbolizing the timelessness of its message and melody.
In an ironic twist, Here Comes the Sun serves as a gateway into the Beatles' discography for modern listeners, showcasing irresistible songwriting and innovative studio artistry. Harrison’s pioneering spirit, particularly in his experimentation with eclectic instruments, echoes throughout the band's history.
As we reflect on the song, it encapsulates a universal truth: even amidst life's challenges, hope prevails. Here Comes the Sun is not just a musical masterpiece; it’s an anthem of resilience.
What are your thoughts on Here Comes the Sun and its fascinating production journey? Join the conversation in the comments below.
Part 1/11:
Here Comes the Sun: The Story Behind a Classic
Here Comes the Sun has emerged as one of the most cherished songs in the Beatles' repertoire. Not only does it serve as a delightful introduction for new fans to explore the band's music, but it also encapsulates a unique blend of artistry, personal experience, and innovative production techniques. This article will take you on a detailed journey through the creation of this iconic song, revealing the intriguing anomalies and production quirks that accompany it.
The Genesis of a Timeless Melody
Part 2/11:
As the second half of the Beatles' legendary Abbey Road album, released in September 1969—the band's final recorded studio album—Here Comes the Sun was crafted by none other than George Harrison. Unlike many other Beatles songs primarily penned by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Harrison brought his distinctive touch to this piece. He composed it during a serene afternoon at Eric Clapton’s country estate, making a conscious decision to forgo a stressful business meeting in favor of enjoying the beauty of an early spring day. Armed with his acoustic guitar, George channeled his sense of peace and joy into what has now become an immortal tune.
The Recording Process
Part 3/11:
The actual recording of Here Comes the Sun began on July 7, 1969, just a week into the Abbey Road sessions. With Ringo Starr on drums, Paul McCartney adding a melodic bass line, and Harrison providing the primary acoustic guitar, the Beatles laid down 13 takes of the rhythm track. Notably absent was John Lennon, who was recuperating from a car accident in Scotland. After recording the basics, George revisited the track the following day to establish his lead vocals, which he'd enhance with harmonies from McCartney.
Part 4/11:
Harrison’s process involved creating layers of sound and texture, notably incorporating a harmonium and handclaps on July 16. As production continued into August, experimentation with electric guitar added more dimensions to the song. Harrison's choice to use a Leslie speaker (instead of a standard amp) produced a distinctive, swirling electric sound, particularly heard around the 1:15 mark in the final mix.
The Addition of Unique Ingredients
Part 5/11:
After finalizing the guitar parts, the iconic orchestral arrangement came into play, thanks to producer George Martin, who worked with session musicians to record beautiful strings and woodwinds. Yet, the most noteworthy addition to the mix was the use of the Moog synthesizer—a revolutionary instrument that Harrison had been eager to utilize after witnessing its capabilities in an earlier project. The lush sounds of the Moog elevate the song further, and it provides additional layers to the rich harmonic structure of Here Comes the Sun.
Part 6/11:
The blend of woodwinds and Moog sounds created an interesting production quirk: the Moog was recorded over the same track that features the woodwinds, partially erasing it, but preserving enough of the original string arrangement to be discernible at certain moments in the song.
A Masterful Final Touch
Once all the varied elements were in place, mixing began, and it became evident that Here Comes the Sun possessed several post-production anomalies. One particular quirk is the song’s slightly sharp key—an intentional choice known as vari-speed, often favored by the Beatles to create a unique sonic texture. Another interesting discovery occurred around 2006 when a remixed version for the Cirque du Soleil musical LOVE resurrected a line that had been omitted from the final chorus.
Part 7/11:
Furthermore, the date of the song's mix, August 20, 1969, would forever be marked as the last time all four Beatles convened in the studio, signifying the end of an unparalleled creative journey. The song was strategically placed as the opener for the second half of Abbey Road, transitioning from the heavy I Want You (She’s So Heavy) into the bright optimism of Here Comes the Sun, creating a stark tonal contrast that perfectly reset the mood for the remainder of the album.
The Unintended Intricacies
Part 8/11:
There’s an intriguing subplot regarding the thematic connection between Here Comes the Sun and John Lennon’s later track, Sun King. Speculation exists over whether Lennon was inspired by Harrison’s composition or vice versa—an instance highlighting the shared creative synergies within the band. One theory posits that a loose recording from the Get Back sessions captures Lennon seemingly referencing the phrase “here comes the sun,” which later appears in the title of his song.
Part 9/11:
Nonetheless, the uncertainty surrounding their creative influences remains, as neither Harrison nor Lennon ever publicly addressed this connection. What is clearer, however, is how Harrison’s compositions on Abbey Road marked a pivotal moment in his recognition as a serious songwriter. Producer George Martin acknowledged this shift, and both Lennon and McCartney expressed admiration for Harrison’s work in the years that followed.
Legacy and Impact
Part 10/11:
Here Comes the Sun’s cultural significance has grown remarkably since its release. Despite initial criticism and the absence of promotion as a single, the song eventually found its place as a beloved classic. It provided solace and hope, emerging from a period of personal turmoil in Harrison's life—a calming reminder that after the darkest winter, the sun inevitably shines again.
George Harrison's creativity continued beyond the Beatles, with performances of Here Comes the Sun becoming highlights of his solo career. The song’s enduring appeal has led it to become one of the most streamed Beatles tracks in recent years, symbolizing the timelessness of its message and melody.
Part 11/11:
In an ironic twist, Here Comes the Sun serves as a gateway into the Beatles' discography for modern listeners, showcasing irresistible songwriting and innovative studio artistry. Harrison’s pioneering spirit, particularly in his experimentation with eclectic instruments, echoes throughout the band's history.
As we reflect on the song, it encapsulates a universal truth: even amidst life's challenges, hope prevails. Here Comes the Sun is not just a musical masterpiece; it’s an anthem of resilience.
What are your thoughts on Here Comes the Sun and its fascinating production journey? Join the conversation in the comments below.