Released: 1970
George Harrison’s ‘My Sweet Lord’ is a spiritual rock ballad that explores the artist’s deep longing for a divine connection. The song is a heartfelt expression of Harrison’s desire to know, see, and be with his Lord, but also his frustration over the perceived distance between them.
The repetition of ‘My sweet Lord’ and ‘Hm, my Lord’ emphasizes Harrison’s deep yearning for spiritual connection. The ‘Hm’ is a contemplative sigh, expressing his longing and frustration.
When Harrison sings ‘I really want to see you, Really want to be with you’, he’s expressing a deep desire for spiritual communion. This isn’t about physical sight or presence, but a deeper, spiritual understanding and connection.
The phrase ‘But it takes so long, my Lord’ reveals Harrison’s struggle with the spiritual journey. It’s a common sentiment among those seeking spiritual enlightenment, where the path often feels long and arduous.
The use of ‘hallelujah’ throughout the song is a traditional expression of praise and joy in Christian culture. However, it’s also used here to underscore the struggle and longing in Harrison’s spiritual journey.
The song later incorporates ‘Hare Krishna’ and other Hindu chants. This reflects Harrison’s exploration of Eastern spirituality, particularly the Hare Krishna movement. The chants are used in meditation to help focus the mind and connect with the divine.
The final lines of the song include Sanskrit chants ‘Gurur Brahma’, ‘Gurur Vishnu’, and others. These are part of a Hindu prayer paying respect to the spiritual teacher, further emphasizing Harrison’s spiritual quest.
In conclusion, ‘My Sweet Lord’ is a beautiful exploration of George Harrison’s spiritual journey. It’s a testament to his longing for divine connection, his struggle with the perceived distance, and his exploration of different spiritual paths.
