Something - The Beatles - 1969
Introduction
Something is a song by The Beatles from their 1969 album Abbey Road. Written by George Harrison, it was the first song written by Harrison to be released as an A-side single by the band. The song is widely regarded as one of Harrison's finest works and one of the greatest love songs ever written.
Background
"Something" was recorded during the sessions for Abbey Road. George Harrison wrote the song inspired by his then-wife Pattie Boyd. It was the first Beatles single written by Harrison to achieve number one status. Frank Sinatra once referred to "Something" as "the greatest love song of the past 50 years."
Composition and Lyrics
The song features a distinctive melody and a memorable guitar solo by George Harrison. The lyrics express deep affection and admiration for a loved one, capturing a universal sentiment that resonated with many listeners. Notably, the opening line, "Something in the way she moves," was inspired by a song of the same name by James Taylor.
Reception and Legacy
"Something" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Joe Cocker. It remains a staple in The Beatles' discography and a highlight of their later work. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Harrison's songwriting prowess.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
Who wrote the song "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
Which album features the song "Something"? (Abbey Road) (!Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band) (!Revolver) (!Rubber Soul)
Who described "Something" as "the greatest love song of the past 50 years"? (Frank Sinatra) (!Elvis Presley) (!Bob Dylan) (!Mick Jagger)
What inspired George Harrison to write "Something"? (His then-wife Pattie Boyd) (!The Beatles' manager) (!A random encounter) (!A dream he had)
Which artist's song inspired the opening line of "Something"? (James Taylor) (!Bob Dylan) (!Eric Clapton) (!Roy Orbison)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Who played the lead guitar solo on "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
Which member of The Beatles wrote "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
In which year was "Something" released as a single? (1969) (!1967) (!1970) (!1965)
What is the name of the Beatles album that features "Something"? (Abbey Road) (!Let It Be) (!The White Album) (!Help!)
Who described "Something" as "the greatest love song of the past 50 years"? (Frank Sinatra) (!Elvis Presley) (!Bob Dylan) (!Mick Jagger)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What is the opening line of "Something"? (Something in the way she moves) (!Something about the way she smiles) (!Something in the way she talks) (!Something about the way she laughs)
Which word completes this lyric: "Something in the way she ______ attracts me like no other lover"? (moves) (!walks) (!talks) (!smiles)
What does the singer say he doesn’t need in the lyrics of "Something"? (No other lover) (!Another friend) (!More time) (!A reason why)
How does the singer feel about "something" in the song? (Attracted) (!Confused) (!Afraid) (!Indifferent)
Which Beatles member sings the lead vocal in "Something"? (George Harrison) (!John Lennon) (!Paul McCartney) (!Ringo Starr)
Memory
| George Harrison | Lead guitar solo |
| Pattie Boyd | Inspiration for the song |
| Abbey Road | Album featuring "Something" |
| Frank Sinatra | Praised the song |
| James Taylor | Inspired the opening line |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Write a brief summary: Write a brief summary of the song "Something" and its significance.
- Create a drawing: Draw a picture that represents the mood of the song.
- Find a cover version: Find and share a cover version of "Something" by another artist.
Standard
- Analyze the lyrics: Analyze the lyrics of "Something" and explain what they mean to you.
- Research the recording: Research the recording process of "Something" and present your findings.
- Compare songs: Compare "Something" to another Beatles song written by George Harrison.
Difficult
- Compose a song: Write and compose your own love song inspired by "Something".
- Film a short video: Film a short video discussing the impact of "Something" on popular music.
- Interview fans: Conduct interviews with Beatles fans about why they love "Something".
- Research covers: Research various cover versions of "Something" and analyze how different artists interpret the song.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the influence: Discuss the influence of George Harrison's songwriting on The Beatles' later work.
- Analyze the impact: Analyze the impact of "Something" on the band's popularity.
- Interpret the lyrics: Interpret the lyrics of "Something" and explain how they contribute to the song's meaning.
- Compare different interpretations: Compare different interpretations of "Something" by various artists.
- Explain the significance: Explain the significance of "Something" being the first A-side single written by George Harrison.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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