The Beatles - Something - 1969
The Beatles - Something - 1969
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The Beatles - "Something" - 1969
"Something" is a song by the Beatles, released in 1969 on their album "Abbey Road." Written by George Harrison, it was the first Harrison song to be the A-side of a Beatles single. This song stands out as a significant moment in the Beatles' history, showcasing Harrison's emergence as a songwriter on par with John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
George Harrison, der Autor des Liedes "Something".
Background
"Something" was written by George Harrison as a love song, although he often downplayed the sentimentality of the lyrics. It was recorded between April and August 1969 at Abbey Road Studios in London. The song's recording sessions were part of the tumultuous period during the Beatles' later years, yet "Something" emerged as a serene and mature composition.
Composition and Lyrics
The song is noted for its harmonic complexity and sophisticated arrangement, featuring a string section arranged by George Martin, the Beatles' producer. The lyrics of "Something" are often interpreted as a love song, but Harrison himself stated that he had been thinking about Ray Charles while writing it.
Reception and Legacy
"Something" received widespread acclaim from music critics and is often ranked as one of the greatest Beatles songs. It has been covered by over 150 artists, making it the second-most covered Beatles song after "Yesterday." The song's influence extends beyond the realm of music, becoming a standard in the romantic genre.
The Beatles and the 1960s
The Beatles were central to the counterculture of the 1960s and had a profound impact on the era's music, fashion, and lifestyle. "Something" was released towards the end of this period, marking a transition from the band's earlier, more experimental works to a more contemplative and mature style.
Impact on Popular Culture
The song's popularity and critical acclaim helped solidify George Harrison's status as a major songwriter in the band. It also demonstrated the Beatles' ability to evolve and adapt their musical style, remaining relevant and influential throughout the decade and beyond.
For further exploration, check out these topics:
External resources for more in-depth study: MOOCit
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What year was "Something" released? (1969) (!1970) (!1968) (!1967)
Which Beatles album features "Something"? (Abbey Road) (!Let It Be) (!Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band) (!The White Album)
Who wrote "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
Which Beatles song is the second-most covered, after "Yesterday"? (Something) (!Hey Jude) (!Let It Be) (!Come Together)
What is unique about "Something" in terms of its release as a single? (It was the first Harrison song to be the A-side of a Beatles single) (!It was the last Beatles song released as a single) (!It was the only Beatles song released as a single without a B-side) (!It was the first Beatles song to feature a synthesizer)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Which Beatle was known for his spiritual and introspective songwriting, exemplified in songs like "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
In what year did the Beatles officially disband? (1970) (!1969) (!1971) (!1968)
Which of the following albums was released by the Beatles before "Abbey Road"? (Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band) (!Let It Be) (!Yellow Submarine) (!Magical Mystery Tour)
What is George Harrison's role in the Beatles? (Lead Guitarist) (!Drummer) (!Bassist) (!Keyboardist)
Which Beatles song was prominently featured in the 1968 animated film "Yellow Submarine"? (Yellow Submarine) (!Hey Jude) (!Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds) (!Something)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
Which of the following lines is a lyric from "Something"? ("You're asking me will my love grow") (!"Life is very short, and there's no time") (!"I get by with a little help from my friends") (!"Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes")
"Something" is often interpreted as a love song. Who did George Harrison say he was thinking about while writing it? (Ray Charles) (!Patti Boyd) (!John Lennon) (!Himself)
Which of the following instruments is prominently featured in "Something"? (String section) (!Sitar) (!Synthesizer) (!Harmonica)
The lyric "You're asking me will my love grow" suggests a theme of: (Uncertainty in love) (!Joyful celebration) (!Nostalgic reminiscence) (!Overcoming adversity)
How does the song "Something" begin? (With a guitar riff) (!With a piano solo) (!With vocal harmonies) (!With a drum solo)
Memory
| George Harrison | Wrote "Something" |
| Abbey Road | Album featuring "Something" |
| 1969 | Year "Something" was released |
| Ray Charles | Inspiration for "Something" |
| String section | Featured in "Something" |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Research the 1960s: Look up other significant events in music, culture, and politics during the 1960s.
- Create a Playlist: Make a playlist of your favorite Beatles songs and share it with friends.
- Write a Review: Write a short review of "Something" and why you think it's a significant song.
Standard
- Analyze the Lyrics: Dive deeper into the lyrics of "Something" and discuss its themes and meanings.
- Compare Beatles Songs: Compare "Something" to another Beatles song in terms of style, theme, and composition.
- George Harrison's Songwriting: Explore other songs written by George Harrison and identify common themes or styles.
Difficult
- Cover Version: Record your own cover of "Something" and share it on social media.
- Music Video Creation: Create a music video for "Something" that captures the essence of the song.
- Songwriting Challenge: Write your own song inspired by "Something," focusing on its themes or musical style.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the Evolution of the Beatles: Talk about how the Beatles' music evolved over time and how "Something" fits into this evolution.
- Impact of 1960s Culture: Discuss how the culture of the 1960s influenced the Beatles and their music.
- Comparative Analysis: Compare the songwriting styles of George Harrison with those of Lennon and McCartney.
- Music Industry Changes: Discuss how the Beatles influenced the music industry and popular culture.
- Interpreting Lyrics: Explain what you think the lyrics of "Something" mean and why they resonate with so many people.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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