About The Song
"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" is a poignant and timeless masterpiece by The Beatles, written by George Harrison. Featured on their 1968 double album, "The Beatles" (commonly known as the White Album), the song is a testament to Harrison's growth as a songwriter and his ability to infuse emotion and spirituality into his compositions.
The song opens with a delicate acoustic guitar and Harrison's contemplative vocals. The lyrics reflect introspection and a sense of melancholy, with the metaphor of a gently weeping guitar symbolizing the internal turmoil and introspective musings of the songwriter. The choice of words and imagery underscores Harrison's evolving role as a significant contributor to The Beatles' songwriting arsenal.
One of the most iconic aspects of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" is the inclusion of Eric Clapton on lead guitar. Clapton's soulful and emotive guitar solo adds a layer of depth to the track, creating a memorable and powerful moment in the song. The collaboration between Harrison and Clapton not only resulted in a brilliant musical synergy but also highlighted the camaraderie and mutual respect among musicians during that era.
The production of the song is notable for its simplicity and elegance. The arrangement gradually builds, incorporating elements such as a subtle organ and orchestration, enhancing the emotional impact without overshadowing the core of the composition. The song's structure allows each instrument and vocal line to shine, contributing to its timeless and universally resonant quality.
"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" has endured as one of The Beatles' most beloved songs, celebrated for its introspective lyrics, soulful melody, and the poignant interplay between Harrison and Clapton's guitars. The song has been covered and interpreted by numerous artists over the years, attesting to its enduring influence and emotional resonance.
In summary, "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" stands as a testament to George Harrison's artistic evolution within The Beatles and his ability to convey deep emotions through music. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its universal themes, timeless melody, and the collaborative magic that occurred when Harrison invited Eric Clapton to contribute to this musical masterpiece.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I look at you all, see the love there that's sleeping
While my guitar gently weeps
I look at the floor and I see it needs sweeping
Still my guitar gently weeps
I don't know why nobody told you
How to unfold your love
I don't know how someone controlled you
They bought and sold you
I look at the world and I notice it's turning
While my guitar gently weeps
With every mistake we must surely be learning
Still my guitar gently weeps
Well...
I don't know how you were diverted
You were perverted too
I don't know how you were inverted
No one alerted you
I look at you all, see the love there that's sleeping
[LOVE version:] I look from the wings at the play you are staging.
While my guitar gently weeps
Look at you all
[LOVE version:] As I'm sitting here doing nothing but aging
Still my guitar gently weeps
Oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, oh, ooh