Keith Richards’ Favorite George Harrison Songs

In the vibrant cultural revolution of the 1960s, two bands towered above all others in shaping the future of popular music: The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Together, they spearheaded the British Invasion, altering the soundscape of rock and roll while influencing fashion, youth identity, and countercultural ideals. Both bands became the voice of a generation seeking freedom from the post-war gloom, setting the soundtrack to the Swinging Sixties.

Although fans and media often exaggerated a rivalry between the Stones and The Beatles, in reality, there was mutual respect and friendship between the musicians. Few relationships within these legendary groups were as understated yet profound as that between Keith Richards, the Stones’ iconic guitarist, and George Harrison, The Beatles’ “quiet Beatle.”

When Harrison passed away in 2001, Richards contributed to Rolling Stone’s special tribute issue Remembering George, where he reflected on their personal connection. Richards recalled:

“George and I kind of formed — without talking too much about it — a bond, in that we felt we were kind of fulfilling the same role within our respective bands. It was a nod and a wink to say, ‘Well, they’d be nowhere without us.’”

He fondly described Harrison as quiet, enigmatic, and equipped with a sly sense of humor. Their unspoken understanding was built on mutual recognition: both were secondary songwriters in bands dominated by colossal partnerships (Lennon–McCartney for The Beatles, Jagger–Richards for the Stones). This similarity gave them common ground and a sense of solidarity.

Keith Richards’ Favorite George Harrison Songs

While Richards has consistently praised The Beatles’ collective genius, he held particular admiration for Harrison’s songwriting. In the Remembering George issue, Richards revealed his three favorite Harrison-penned songs:

1. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” – A haunting ballad from The White Album, widely regarded as one of Harrison’s masterpieces. With Eric Clapton’s guitar contribution, the track showcased Harrison’s emotional depth and lyrical brilliance.
2. “Something” – Featured on Abbey Road, this tender love song became one of The Beatles’ most beloved hits. Even Frank Sinatra once called it “the greatest love song ever written.” Richards admired its timeless elegance and melodic perfection.
3. “My Sweet Lord” – From Harrison’s solo triple album All Things Must Pass (1970). This spiritual anthem not only topped charts but also became the UK’s biggest-selling single of 1971, proving Harrison’s ability to succeed outside the shadow of The Beatles.

Richards noted that Harrison took his time to perfect each song, working meticulously until the track matched his vision — a remarkable feat for someone balancing individuality within the world’s most famous band.

George Harrison’s Lasting Impact

Harrison’s role in The Beatles may have been quieter compared to Lennon and McCartney, but his contributions are undeniable. Songs like “Here Comes the Sun”, “Taxman”, and his solo work further cemented his status as one of rock’s most profound songwriters. Richards’ acknowledgment only adds weight to the recognition Harrison deserved and often did not fully receive during The Beatles’ early years.

The mutual respect between The Stones and The Beatles, particularly between Richards and Harrison, exemplifies how great musicians transcend rivalry. Instead of competition, there was admiration — one legendary guitarist appreciating another.

As decades pass, the bond Richards spoke of continues to resonate with fans who recognize George Harrison not only as “the quiet Beatle” but as a songwriter whose music stands alongside the greatest in rock history.