Harrison

by Rolling Stone Magazine

Book Overview

Here, the editors of Rolling Stone magazine draw on their extensive archives to celebrate the life and career of one of the most talented, most respected and most admired musicians in rock 'n' roll. George Harrison's untimely death saddened millions of rock fans who fondly remember him as the Beatles' lead guitar player, and also recall his solo albums after the Fab Four's break-up. Always known as the 'quiet Beatle', Harrison's contributions to popular...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0743235819
• ISBN13: 9780743235815
• Release Date: April 2002
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 2.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 8.9" x 11.1"

Customer Reviews

Harrison

I must challege Candace Scott's remark in her review : "But it's a stretch, to put it mildly, to place Harrison in the same league as Lennon & McCartney as a songwriter. Ouch! I love George as much as anyone, but still expect truthful history to be written" I agree, George should not be placed in the same league as Lennon & McCartney because he was totally in his own league ! What is Candace making the comparison to here ? It was George, partially inspred by Pattie, his first wife, who led the other Beatles into the rich Vedic culture of spiritual India that inspired so many of their finest musical and lyrical masterpieces. So in that context, the "truthful history to be written", is that George was even partially responsible for some of the finest compopsitions of Lennon and McCartney.George gave great emphasis to the chanting of the Holy Names of the Lord, as in the chanting of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, as found in "My Sweet Lord", and "It Is He ( Sri Krishna )", which is the ultimate function of music, according to the ancient wise sages, gurus and spiritual masters . This Krishna mantra has helped millions of people to give up harmful drugs, animal killing, etc...How many song-writers are doing that with their music today ? George was the innovator, to turn scripture into pop songs. He was divinely empowered and had the integrity to do this, not caring if he was "fab" to the eyes of the masses, unlike anyone before him. To minimize George's ability as a song writer in anyway only helps to disclose one's own superficiality, and lack of spiritual consciousness. George's songs overflow with essential messages of the futility and temporality of things material, such as "All Things Must Pass", the dangers of becoming too materially attached "Beware of Darkness" , the concern for living in harmony with this planet "Save The World", etc... In "Isn't It A Pity", George gives the essence of spirituality, by prompting us to develop equal vision and gratitude toward all beings, including animals : "Some things take so long But how do I explain When not too many people Can see we're all the same And because of all their tears Their eyes can't hope to see The beauty that surrounds them Isn't it a pity I was very disappointed by Candace Scott's inabiity to see that "beauty that surrounds her" and lack of gratitude towards the very substantial and deep contribution George made through his music in transforming the lives of millions of people. I went on to become a Hare Krishna monk over thirty years ago because of his music, and devoted the best years of my life to feeding free vegetarian meals to tens of thousands of people, helping others off drugs, and so many other volunteer activities. George Harrison is my first guru, and awareness of his contribution to the upliftment of the world will only increase as time goes by. Please read this book for it's deeper purpose. gaura_acbsp@yahoo.com

Great book!

If you love George Harrison, you will love this book. It contains excerpts from the people who knew George best, along with many great photos. A must-have for any Beatles fan!

i love george

i am 14 years old and am in love with george harrison! once my family learned this, every single member presented me with a copy on christmas because they had heard how great it was. and it is. this book is practically my bible! it's awesome! i read all of the other reviews on this page, and they are 100% true. this is a great book with wonderful pictures!

A Real Gem

This book is a true gem. It is sure to delight all readers from inveterate Beatles' fans to people becoming familiar with the indelible stamp the Beatles left upon the world at large.The illustrations add to this masterpiece. The interviews by people who knew George Harrison personally are what makes this book so effective in reaching its intended audience. Each individual's voice rings clear and pure; one gets a sense of each person and how they were touched and influenced by George Harrison.To the editors' credit, this book does not languish during the Beatle years; instead, it picks up speed immediately and maintains an even keel throughout the late artist's life. I like the way the songs are discussed and the influences that guided and created them.This book is a sterling work. I highly and heartily recommend it.

Living With Good & Bad, I Always Looked Up To You

Unlike nearly every other book on George Harrison, this is of the highest quality & doesn't wander off into gossipy corridors. George's memory is well-served by the book's mature analysis of his wonderful music and its respectful portrayal of George as a human being. I feel compelled to say that when I heard of George's passing, I was extremely upset. Not only was George an amazing songwriter and guitarist, he was also (from what I gather) an extremely gentle person. The world is a much poorer place due to his departure. The book is finely illustrated with many rare pictures; I was delighted that it didn't gloss over George's neglected solo career. Another particular delight is the introduction penned by Mrs. Harrison. Like her husband, Mrs. Harrison is a very dignified, articulate person and I wish her the very best. Pictures of George's son (who looks just like him, by the way) are also included. Thank you for the music, George.