My Sweet Lord
by George Harrison
What is “My Sweet Lord” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “My Sweet Lord” by George Harrison is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
George Harrison's 'My Sweet Lord' is a heartfelt expression of his longing to connect and know a higher spiritual authority, blending both Christian and Hindu elements to convey his yearning for spiritual union and understanding.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'My Sweet Lord,' George Harrison captures a universal spiritual yearning through an artful blend of religious expressions, particularly from Christianity and Hinduism. The song articulates the deep longing to be closer to a divine entity, representing a personal, introspective journey into faith and the frustrations of this metaphysical pursuit. Harrison's repeated phrases like 'really wanna see you' and the choruses indicating various holy names provide a meditative quality, creating a sonic mantra that emphasizes longing and spiritual seeking. Beyond its religious overtone, the song also speaks to the universal quest for deeper meaning in life and the often-laborious path of spiritual enlightenment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What inspired George Harrison to write 'My Sweet Lord'?
George Harrison was inspired by his own spiritual journey and the desire to meld his musical career with his religious beliefs. His increased involvement with Hinduism particularly influenced the lyrics.
Q: Why does 'My Sweet Lord' feature both 'Hallelujah' and 'Hare Krishna' in its lyrics?
Harrison wanted to express the idea that different religious traditions are just different paths to the same ultimate reality by blending Christian and Hindu sacred chants.
Q: Was 'My Sweet Lord' involved in any controversies?
Yes, the song was at the center of a high-profile plagiarism case for its similarities to the Chiffons' hit 'He’s So Fine,' which led to a legal battle over unintentional copyright infringement.
Lyrics to “My Sweet Lord”
72 ContributorsTranslations
[Verse 3]
I 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
[Chorus]
(Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
Mmm, my Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my, my Lord (Hallelujah)
[Verse 4]
I really wanna know you (Hallelujah)
(Hallelujah)
(Hallelujah)
Mmmmm (Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my Lord (Hallelujah)
[Guitar Solo]
[Chorus]
Mmm, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
Oh, oh, my sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
Ooh (Hare Hare)
[Verse 5]
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
[Chorus]
(Hallelujah)
Mmm, my Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My, my sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
[Post-Chorus]
My sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
Ah, oh, my Lord (Hare Hare)
Mmm (Gurur Brahma)
Mmm (Gurur Vishnu)
Mmm (Gurur Devo)
Mmm (Maheshwara)
My sweet Lord (Gurur Sakshaat)
My sweet Lord (Para Brahma)
My, my, my Lord (Tasmayi Shree)
My, my, my, my Lord (Guruve Namah)
My, my sweet Lord (Hare Rama)
[Outro]
(Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
My, my sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
My, my sweet Lord (Hare Hare)