Get ready to dive into a fascinating story about a song that became an iconic masterpiece, despite facing rejection multiple times. The Beatles' loss was George Harrison's gain, and the world gained an emotional and musical masterpiece.
George Harrison, often overshadowed by the dynamic duo of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, had to navigate a challenging path to have his songs heard within The Beatles. Peter Jackson's documentary, Get Back, showcases the subtle persistence required for Harrison's songs to get a chance.
One such song, Isn't It A Pity, a melancholic masterpiece reflecting on broken relationships and a lack of empathy, was rejected by The Beatles on three separate occasions. Beatles biographer Mark Lewisohn reveals that Harrison first presented this song during the Revolver sessions in 1966. Beatles engineer Geoff Emerick recalls it being considered and rejected for Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band in 1967. A year later, Harrison tried again, hoping for inclusion in The White Album.
A conversation between Harrison and Lennon reveals that Lennon had vetoed the song three years prior, with Harrison considering offering it to Frank Sinatra. However, it was Harrison's persistence that paid off, as he finally released this song on his solo album, All Things Must Pass, co-produced with Phil Spector, in 1970.
Isn't It A Pity became a highlight of Harrison's career, praised for its emotional depth and sophistication. Writer Simon Leng described it as the emotional and musical centerpiece of All Things Must Pass. But here's where it gets controversial... The song's enigmatic chord structure and melodic intensity might have been the very reasons The Beatles didn't gravitate towards it initially.
The power of Isn't It A Pity lies in its sweeping melody and direct lyrics. Harrison's vocal performance is understated yet impactful, delivering the poignant message with a calm, wistful tone. The song's arrangement, featuring an array of talented musicians, builds gradually, incorporating orchestration into the rock sound.
Two versions of the song were released, each with its own unique charm. Version one, an epic Spector-influenced performance, features a full band, including Ringo Starr and Bobby Whitlock. Version two, recorded weeks later by chance, is a slower, more intimate rendition, featuring Eric Clapton, Bobby Whitlock, and Carl Radle. This version has a raw, natural sound, almost like a long-lost demo, capturing the essence of Harrison's intent.
Isn't It A Pity became a massive success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and elevating Harrison's status above Lennon and McCartney post-Beatles breakup. The song's impact is evident in the numerous covers by artists like Nina Simone, Graham Nash, and Annie Lennox. One of the most memorable performances was at the Concert for George in 2002, featuring Eric Clapton and Billy Preston, with Harrison's son Dhani and Jeff Lynne of ELO.
Critically acclaimed, the song's aching tolerance of pain, as noted by Alan Smith of NME, has stood the test of time. And this is the part most people miss... Isn't It A Pity's journey from rejection to recognition showcases the power of persistence and the beauty of giving songs a second chance.
What do you think? Do you agree that Harrison's persistence paid off, or do you think The Beatles made the right decision initially? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
