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"What Is Life" is a song written by George Harrison, released on his triple album All Things Must Pass in November 1970. It was also released as a single in February 1971 and became a major hit, reaching number one in Canada and Australia, and the top ten in the United States and the United Kingdom. The song is characterized by its uplifting melody, optimistic lyrics, and Phil Spector’s trademark "Wall of Sound" production.
Composition and Lyrics:
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Authorship: The song was written solely by George Harrison.
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Musical Structure: The song is built around a straightforward chord progression and a catchy hook. It features a prominent use of acoustic and electric guitars, along with a driving rhythm section. The distinctive sound also incorporates horns and string arrangements.
- Lyrical Theme: The lyrics explore the theme of love and its transformative power, presenting love as the very essence of life. The words suggest a spiritual awakening and the realization that true happiness lies in selfless love. There is a sense of searching for meaning and finding it in the connection with another person or with a higher power. Lines like "What is life without your love?" and "What is life if we only live for ourselves?" illustrate this core message.
Recording and Production:
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Producer: Phil Spector produced the track, known for his "Wall of Sound" technique, which involved layering multiple instruments to create a dense, reverberant sound.
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Studio: The song was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London.
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Musicians: A host of talented musicians contributed to the recording, including:
- George Harrison: Vocals, Guitar
- Eric Clapton: Guitar (unconfirmed, but widely believed)
- Billy Preston: Keyboards, Organ
- Klaus Voormann: Bass
- Jim Gordon: Drums
- Jim Price, Bobby Keys: Horns
- Notable Production Techniques: Spector’s production is evident in the song’s dense instrumentation, heavy reverb, and layered vocals. The prominent use of horns and strings contributes to the song’s grand, anthemic feel.
Release and Reception:
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Album Release: The song was initially released on the All Things Must Pass album in November 1970. The album was a critical and commercial success, marking Harrison’s first major solo release after the breakup of The Beatles.
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Single Release: "What Is Life" was released as a single in February 1971. The B-side of the single was "Apple Scruffs".
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Chart Performance: The single achieved significant chart success:
- Canada: Number 1
- Australia: Number 1
- United States: Number 10
- United Kingdom: Number 10
- Critical Reception: The song was generally well-received by critics, who praised its catchy melody, optimistic lyrics, and Spector’s production. It has since become a classic of the post-Beatles era and a staple of Harrison’s solo work.
Legacy and Influence:
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Enduring Popularity: "What Is Life" remains a popular and well-loved song, frequently played on the radio and featured in films and television shows.
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Cover Versions: The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, demonstrating its lasting appeal.
- Significance: The song helped to establish George Harrison as a major solo artist and contributed to the overall success of All Things Must Pass, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time.
Overall, "What Is Life" is a timeless song that captures the essence of love, hope, and spiritual awakening. Its catchy melody, uplifting lyrics, and Phil Spector’s distinctive production have made it a lasting favorite for generations of music lovers.
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