Why George Harrison Was Nearly Excluded From “Come Together”

April 1, 2025

In the vibrant world of rock music during the late 1960s, The Beatles were at the pinnacle of fame. They were not only a band; they were a cultural phenomenon. Yet, behind the scenes, tensions simmered among its members. One fateful day, as they gathered in the studio to work on their iconic album “Abbey Road,” a surprising drama unfolded that could have led to George Harrison being nearly excluded from one of the band’s most famous songs, “Come Together.”

As the band members began to craft “Come Together,” a track that would go on to become one of their most beloved songs, George felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. He wanted to contribute to the creative process, but the air was thick with competition. Paul McCartney and John Lennon, the dominant forces in the band, had strong ideas about the direction of the music. George, often overshadowed by their combined brilliance, worried about asserting his voice. He had great music inside him, but he feared it would be overlooked once again. This feeling of being sidelined was not new to him; it had been a recurring theme throughout his time in the band.

As the song started to take shape, George’s contributions during the writing sessions were minimal. The lyrics flowed from John’s pen, infused with playful yet enigmatic phrases. Paul’s bass line rolled smoothly beneath it, creating a rich sound that was distinctly Beatles. George, desperately wanting to be part of this magic, felt his ideas slipping away. He longed to add his renowned guitar riffs or creative melodies, but every time he tried to interject, his contributions were drowned out by the overwhelming energy of his bandmates. The feelings of frustration grew, and it became clear that if he didn’t step up, he might not have a place in the song at all.

However, deep down, George had a fire burning within him. A love for music that refused to be extinguished. After a few tense days in the studio, he decided he wouldn’t let this opportunity slip away. With newfound determination, George brought forth a unique guitar solo that would eventually become a defining element of “Come Together.” He infused his signature sound into the track, blending bluesy riffs with a psychedelic twist. The moment he played his part, the room transformed. The other band members turned to him with surprise and excitement, realizing that George’s talent was not something to overlook but celebrate.

The inclusion of George’s guitar in “Come Together” marked a turning point in his life. While it could have easily been a moment of exclusion, it became a testament to his resilience. The song, and George’s contribution to it, not only enhanced its brilliance but also sparked a renewed sense of confidence in him. From that day forward, he understood the importance of asserting his creativity, reminding him that his voice was just as vital as those of Paul and John. The experience deepened his passion for music and set the stage for him to become a celebrated solo artist after The Beatles disbanded.

In retrospect, George Harrison’s journey through “Come Together” was more than just a chapter in a song; it was a powerful reminder that every artist has a unique story to tell. He faced his challenges head-on, refusing to back down or be overlooked. Ultimately, George emerged not just as a member of The Beatles, but as an inspiring figure in music history, forever known for his contributions that shaped the sound of a generation. Through resilience, he learned that creativity thrives best when shared, echoing a message that continues to resonate with artists around the world today.