About the song
“My Sweet Lord,” a timeless anthem by English musician George Harrison, debuted in November 1970 as a standout track on his monumental triple album *All Things Must Pass*. This song marked Harrison’s inaugural solo single release and swiftly ascended to the top of charts worldwide, becoming the highest-selling single of 1971 in the UK and securing the distinction of being the first number-one hit by an ex-Beatle in both America and Britain.
Inspired by his deep spiritual journey and admiration for Hindu teachings, Harrison crafted “My Sweet Lord” as a fusion of praise for the Hindu deity Krishna and a plea for unity across religious divides. The song resonates with a profound message aimed at transcending sectarianism, blending the Hebrew word ‘hallelujah’ with the chants of ‘Hare Krishna’ and Vedic prayers. Produced by Phil Spector, the recording is renowned for its Wall of Sound production technique and showcases Harrison’s mastery of the slide guitar, a technique that would become emblematic of his solo work.
Despite its critical acclaim and commercial success, “My Sweet Lord” became embroiled in a controversial copyright infringement lawsuit in the mid-1970s. The lawsuit alleged similarities between Harrison’s composition and the Chiffons’ hit “He’s So Fine,” ultimately ruling Harrison guilty of subconscious plagiarism. Despite this setback, the song continued to be revered as Harrison’s most iconic post-Beatles creation, embodying his spiritual depth and musical innovation.
Harrison performed “My Sweet Lord” live at the historic Concert for Bangladesh in August 1971, further cementing its place in music history. Over the years, the song has been celebrated by artists across genres and cultures, underscoring its enduring influence and universal appeal. It has been honored on prestigious lists such as Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” reaffirming its status as a timeless classic that transcends generations and musical boundaries.
With its blend of profound spirituality and melodic brilliance, “My Sweet Lord” stands as a testament to George Harrison’s unique artistic vision and enduring legacy in the pantheon of rock music.
Video
Lyrics
My sweet Lord
Mm, my Lord
Mm, my Lord
I really want to see you
Really want to be with you
Really want to see you, Lord
But it takes so long, my Lord
My sweet Lord
Mm, my Lord
Mm, my Lord
I really want to know you
Really want to go with you
Really want to show you, Lord
That it won’t take long, my Lord
My sweet Lord
(Hallelujah)
Mm my Lord
(Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord
(Hallelujah)
Really wanna see you
Really wanna see you
Really wanna see you, Lord
Really wanna see you, Lord
But it takes so long, my Lord
My sweet Lord
(Hallelujah)
Mm, my Lord
(Hallelujah)
My, my, my Lord
(Hallelujah)
I really wanna know you
(Hallelujah)
Really wanna go with you
(Hallelujah)
Really wanna show you, Lord
That it won’t take long, my Lord
(Hallelujah)
Mmm
(Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord
(Hallelujah)
My, my Lord
(Hallelujah)
Mmm, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
Oh, my sweet Lord (Krishna, Krishna)
Oh (Hare Hare)
Now I really wanna see you (Hare Rama)
Really wanna be with you (Hare Rama)
Really wanna see you, Lord
But it takes so long, my Lord (Hallelujah)
Mm, my Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Krishna, Krishna)
My Lord (Hare Hare)
Mmmm (Gurur Brahma)
Mmmm (Gurur Vishnu)
Mmmm (Gurur Devo)
Mmmm (Maheshwara)
My sweet Lord (Gurur Sakshaat)
My sweet Lord (Parabrahma)
My, my, my Lord (Tasmayi Shree)
My, my, my, my Lord (Guruve Namah)
My sweet Lord (Hare Rama, Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Krishna, Krishna)