The Beatles, undeniably one of the most iconic bands in the history of music, left an indelible mark on the world with their timeless melodies and revolutionary songwriting. Among their vast repertoire of hits, “Something” stands as a shining gem, captivating listeners with its soul-stirring lyrics and enchanting melody. Written by George Harrison, it is a testament to his growing stature as a songwriter within the band. Let’s delve deeper into the mystique of “Something” and uncover 20 fascinating facts that illuminate its enduring magic.

1. George Harrison’s Magnum Opus: “Something” marked George Harrison’s emergence as a formidable songwriter within The Beatles. It became the first of his compositions to grace the A-side of a Beatles single.
2. Inspiration Strikes: The inspiration for “Something” came from Harrison’s then-wife, Pattie Boyd. He once famously said, “All the most beautiful love songs in the world are about Pattie.”
3. Influence of Ray Charles: Harrison was deeply influenced by Ray Charles’ song “Something,” which shares the same title. The opening line, “Something in the way she moves,” was inspired by Charles’ song.
4. Recording Evolution: The song evolved significantly during the recording process. Initially conceived as a slow bluesy track, it transformed into the iconic ballad that we know today.
5. Lyrical Simplicity: Despite its simple lyrics, “Something” conveys profound emotions of love and longing. Its universal themes resonate with listeners across generations.
6. Instrumental Brilliance: The instrumental arrangement, featuring Harrison’s iconic guitar solo and Paul McCartney’s melodic bassline, elevates the song to new heights of musical excellence.
7. Frank Sinatra’s Tribute: Frank Sinatra, after hearing “Something,” famously referred to it as “the greatest love song ever written.”
8. Chart Success: Upon its release in 1969, “Something” quickly ascended the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of The Beatles’ most successful singles.
9. Grammy Recognition: “Something” earned George Harrison a Grammy nomination for Best Song of the Year in 1970, solidifying his status as a masterful songwriter.
10. Cover Versions Galore: The enduring popularity of “Something” has led to numerous cover versions by artists spanning various genres, including Elvis Presley, James Brown, and Shirley Bassey.
11. George’s Favorite Composition: Harrison considered “Something” to be his finest composition with The Beatles, a sentiment echoed by his bandmates and fans alike.
12. George Martin’s Arrangement: The lush orchestral arrangement by Beatles producer George Martin, featuring strings and horns, adds a touch of grandeur to the song’s melancholic beauty.
13. John Lennon’s Initial Doubt: Despite its eventual success, John Lennon initially doubted the song’s potential, famously quipping, “I think that’s the best song George has written.”
14. Iconic Live Performances: “Something” became a staple of The Beatles’ live performances, with Harrison delivering soulful renditions that left audiences spellbound.
15. Celebrated by Critics: Music critics universally praised “Something” for its timeless appeal and emotional depth, cementing its status as one of The Beatles’ greatest achievements.
16. Enduring Legacy: Decades after its release, “Something” continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians, a testament to its enduring legacy.
17. Honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 1999, “Something” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll,” further solidifying its place in music history.
18. Cultural Impact: Beyond its musical brilliance, “Something” has permeated popular culture, appearing in films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring its longevity in the public consciousness.
19. Timeless Romanticism: The song’s timeless romanticism and heartfelt sincerity have made it a favorite choice for weddings and romantic occasions around the world.
20. Eternal Love: Ultimately, “Something” stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and the timeless brilliance of The Beatles, reminding us that some songs are destined to transcend generations.

“Something” by The Beatles remains a shining beacon of musical excellence, a testament to George Harrison’s songwriting prowess and The Beatles’ unparalleled legacy. With its universal themes of love and longing, it continues to resonate with listeners across the globe, captivating hearts and inspiring awe. As we unravel the mystique of “Something” through these 20 fascinating facts, we are reminded of the enduring magic that lies at the heart of The Beatles’ music—a magic that transcends time and space, enriching our lives with its timeless beauty.