About the song
“Something” by The Beatles is a timeless ballad that stands as one of George Harrison’s finest compositions. Released in 1969 as part of the iconic Abbey Road album, the song made history by becoming the band’s first single where Harrison took the lead both in writing and as the A-side, a departure from the usual Lennon-McCartney dominance.
The genesis of “Something” traces back to Harrison’s creative process during the turbulent recording sessions of The Beatles’ self-titled “White Album” in 1968. Inspired by his emotions and experiences, Harrison crafted the song’s opening line, “Something in the way she moves,” drawing from James Taylor’s song title, a fellow artist signed to Apple Records. This melodic thread evolved into a heartfelt exploration of love’s allure and complexity, reflected in lyrics like “Attracts me like no other lover.”
Despite initial doubts over its reception, “Something” became a critical and commercial triumph. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and reached the top five in the UK charts, solidifying Harrison’s stature as a formidable songwriter within the band. The song’s success transcended generations, evidenced by over 150 cover versions by artists ranging from Elvis Presley to Frank Sinatra, each interpreting its poignant lyrics and evocative melody in their unique styles.
Harrison’s personal life intertwined with the song’s narrative, with speculation that “Something” was inspired by his wife at the time, Pattie Boyd. This belief was bolstered by Boyd herself in her memoir, confirming Harrison’s subtle dedication through the song. However, Harrison himself later clarified that while Boyd may have been an influence, his inspiration for the song was broader and not solely tied to her.
The song’s enduring appeal lies not only in its lyrical depth but also in its musical composition—a blend of Harrison’s distinctive guitar work and the band’s trademark harmonies. Its inclusion on Abbey Road marked a pivotal moment in The Beatles’ discography, showcasing Harrison’s evolving role as a songwriter and his ability to capture universal themes of love and longing.
Ultimately, “Something” remains a testament to George Harrison’s creative brilliance and his contribution to The Beatles’ musical legacy. Its ability to resonate with listeners across decades underscores its status as one of the band’s most beloved and enduring compositions, continuing to evoke nostalgia and admiration from fans worldwide.
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Lyrics
Something in the way she moves
Attracts me like no other lover
Something in the way she woos me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how
Somewhere in her smile she knows
That I don’t need no other lover
Something in her style that shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how
You’re asking me will my love grow
I don’t know, I don’t know
You stick around, now it may show
I don’t know, I don’t know
Something in the way she knows
And all I have to do is think of her
Something in the things she shows me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how