The Meaning Behind The Song: What Is Life by George Harrison
The Beatles are often hailed as one of the greatest bands of all time, and for good reason. They were a group of incredibly talented musicians who revolutionized the world of music and popular culture. But while John Lennon and Paul McCartney were the primary songwriters for the band, their fellow Beatle George Harrison also contributed some truly iconic songs to their repertoire, including “Something” and “Here Comes The Sun.” One of his most beloved tracks is the upbeat and catchy “What Is Life,” which he released as a solo artist in 1970. But what inspired Harrison to write this classic tune, and what deeper meaning is he trying to convey? Let’s take a closer look.
The Origins of “What Is Life”
First of all, it’s worth noting that “What Is Life” was not initially intended to be a George Harrison track. In fact, he wrote the song for fellow musician Billy Preston, who he had been working with on various projects. Preston was a keyboardist and vocalist who had collaborated with the Beatles on a number of songs, including “Get Back,” and Harrison thought he would be the perfect fit for “What Is Life.” However, after recording a demo that featured Harrison on vocals, he decided to keep the song for himself. It’s a good thing he did, because “What Is Life” went on to become one of his biggest hits and one of the most beloved songs of the 1970s.
The Sound of “What Is Life”
One of the things that makes “What Is Life” so memorable is its unique sound. The song features a driving, upbeat rhythm and a catchy guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention. But beyond that, there are some interesting production choices that make the song stand out. For example, there’s a prominent horn section that adds a touch of funk and soul to the track. Harrison also incorporated some unconventional instruments, such as a sitar and a Moog synthesizer, which give the song an almost psychedelic feel. All of these elements combine to create a sound that is instantly recognizable and incredibly infectious.
The Lyrics of “What Is Life”
Of course, the music is only half of the equation when it comes to “What Is Life.” The lyrics are just as important, and they reveal a lot about what Harrison was thinking and feeling when he wrote the song. At its core, “What Is Life” is a meditation on the mysteries and uncertainties of existence. Harrison grapples with questions of purpose, meaning, and identity, wondering what it all means in the grand scheme of things. As he sings in the chorus:
“What is life, what is our purpose?
Why do we live, what is the surface?
What is our status, what is our scope?
What is our hope, what is our goal?”
These questions may seem heavy and philosophical, but Harrison manages to infuse them with a sense of optimism and positivity. He acknowledges that there are no easy answers to the big questions of life, but he also suggests that the joy and beauty of existence can be found in the small things. As he sings in the second verse:
“What I feel, I can’t say
But my love is there for you anytime of day
But if it’s not love that you need
Then I’ll try my best to make ev’rything succeed.”
Here, Harrison is recognizing that while he may not have all the answers, he can still offer love and support to those around him. In a sense, this is Harrison’s message for the world: that even though life may be uncertain and mysterious, we can still find joy and fulfillment by being there for each other.
The Legacy of “What Is Life”
Since its release in 1970, “What Is Life” has become one of the most beloved songs in George Harrison’s catalog. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, and it remains a staple of classic rock radio. But beyond that, the song continues to inspire and uplift listeners with its message of hope and positivity. As Harrison himself once said:
“When it comes to the lyrics, it’s a bit like Sgt. Pepper. It could mean anything to anybody. But as long as it has a good beat and people can dance to it, then that’s all that matters.”
In other words, “What Is Life” may be open to interpretation, but its infectious sound and uplifting message make it a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with listeners for generations to come.
