1970: the "quiet Beatle," who had already proven that he was not just the simple back-up to the Lennon-McCartney duo with tracks like "Something" or "While My Guitar Gently Weeps", raises his voice and makes himself heard—oh, he makes himself heard, indeed! "All Things Must Pass" is released, the debut work of solo Harrison, the first triple album to top the UK and US charts. Harrison's genius, overshadowed for years, bursts forth in all its beauty in an album that, thanks also to exceptional guests (it was produced by Phil Spector and featured, among others, his friend Eric Clapton and Ringo Starr), is undoubtedly a masterpiece.
After the very sweet "I'd Have You Anytime" we move to what is undoubtedly Harrison's most famous and controversial song: "My Sweet Lord" was the subject of a years-long legal battle initiated by the Chiffons, who claimed its resemblance (which indeed is not slight) to their "He's So Fine" from 1962. "What Is Life" begins with a fantastic electric guitar solo, over which bass, keyboard, and finally drums are layered. The best track on the album. The other tracks are very beautiful as well, among which "If Not For You" (co-written with Dylan) and "All Things Must Pass" stand out. The six-minute "Hear Me Lord" highlights George's spirituality ("Out and in, there’s no place that You’re not in"). The record closes with five instrumental jams, very much improvised and recorded during studio breaks, among which the striking "Thanks For The Pepperoni" stands out.
Overall, this substantial triple album allows Harrison to showcase his talent as a composer and solo guitarist, fully elevating him to the Olympus of the immortal gods of Rock.
At the end of 1969, he was convinced by his friend Eric Clapton to embark on his adventure of that moment.
'All Things Must Pass' surprised practically everyone who never expected a triple debut and all of excellent level from him, George, 'The Quiet One' of the Fab Four.