About the song
“Got My Mind Set on You” stands as a vibrant testament to George Harrison’s enduring musical legacy, a song that bridges his Beatles past with his solo career triumphs. Originally penned by Rudy Clark and recorded by James Ray in 1962, the song reemerged in 1987 on Harrison’s album *Cloud Nine*, released under his Dark Horse Records label. This revival not only revitalized the song but also cemented its place as one of Harrison’s most celebrated tracks.
Harrison’s rendition of “Got My Mind Set on You” is a masterclass in pop-rock craftsmanship, featuring his distinctive vocals layered over a rich tapestry of instrumentation. Produced by Jeff Lynne, the song captures the essence of Harrison’s musical evolution, blending upbeat rhythms with infectious melodies. The arrangement showcases Harrison’s prowess on electric and acoustic guitars, complemented by Lynne’s bass guitar and synthesizer work, Jim Keltner on drums, Jim Horn on saxophones, and Ray Cooper on percussion, creating a dynamic sonic landscape.
Upon its release in October 1987, “Got My Mind Set on You” ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, marking Harrison’s third and final number-one single in the United States as a solo artist. Notably, it broke a tie among the ex-Beatles, making Harrison the only one to achieve a number-one hit with a cover song. Its success also coincided with the Beatles’ induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, underscoring Harrison’s ongoing relevance in music history.
The song’s popularity extended beyond the US, reaching number two in the UK and garnering acclaim worldwide. It became a fixture on Harrison’s compilations, including *Best of Dark Horse 1976–1989* and *Let It Roll: Songs by George Harrison*, ensuring its enduring presence in his discography.
Accompanying the single are memorable music videos directed by Gary Weis, each adding a distinctive visual flair to the song’s narrative. These videos, alongside the infectious charm of the song itself, solidified “Got My Mind Set on You” as a cultural phenomenon of the late 1980s. Its influence is further underscored by numerous covers and parodies over the years, showcasing its timeless appeal and Harrison’s lasting impact on popular music.
In essence, “Got My Mind Set on You” remains a cornerstone of George Harrison’s solo career, encapsulating his musical versatility, spiritual depth, and unwavering ability to connect with audiences worldwide through his 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)