For much of The Beatles’ career, George Harrison lived in the shadow of the legendary Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership. Yet as the band’s years progressed, Harrison emerged as a world-class songwriter in his own right, producing classics that remain among The Beatles’ most beloved recordings.
While John Lennon often praised Harrison’s growth as a composer, there were occasions when he appeared to downplay George’s contributions or suggest a greater role in certain songs than history ultimately supports. Beatles historians, studio records, and Harrison himself have helped clarify the true origins of these tracks.
Here are five George Harrison songs that Lennon was linked to creatively—but which remain firmly recognized as Harrison compositions.
1. “Taxman” (1966)
Opening Revolver, “Taxman” was George Harrison’s biting critique of Britain’s high tax rates. Lennon later suggested that he helped significantly with the song’s lyrics, particularly some of the sharper lines.
While Lennon did contribute ideas during the songwriting process, Harrison wrote the song and developed its central concept. The track is officially credited solely to Harrison, and its distinctive perspective reflects George’s frustrations rather than Lennon’s worldview.
Today, “Taxman” stands as one of Harrison’s earliest masterpieces and a sign that he was becoming a major creative force within the band.
2. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” (1968)
One of Harrison’s most celebrated Beatles compositions, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” emerged from George’s fascination with Eastern philosophy and the concept of synchronicity.
Over the years, Lennon occasionally implied a broader collaborative environment surrounding Beatles songs, but there is no evidence that he played a significant role in writing this classic. Harrison wrote the song independently, and even invited Eric Clapton to contribute the iconic lead guitar performance.
The emotional depth and spiritual themes are unmistakably Harrison’s, making the song one of the clearest examples of his unique artistic voice.
3. “Something” (1969)
Often regarded as Harrison’s finest Beatles composition, “Something” became the first George Harrison song released as the A-side of a Beatles single.
Lennon later praised the song publicly but also made comments suggesting he had influenced aspects of Harrison’s songwriting development. While Harrison certainly learned from working alongside Lennon and McCartney, “Something” was entirely George’s creation.
Its sophisticated melody and heartfelt lyrics earned admiration from everyone from Frank Sinatra to modern music critics, cementing Harrison’s place among the great songwriters of the 20th century.
4. “Here Comes the Sun” (1969)
Written during a difficult period of business meetings and band tensions, “Here Comes the Sun” was Harrison’s optimistic escape from the pressures surrounding The Beatles.
Unlike many Lennon-McCartney compositions, this song was conceived and developed entirely by George. Lennon’s absence from portions of the recording sessions has further reinforced Harrison’s primary authorship.
Decades later, it remains one of the most-streamed Beatles songs and perhaps the most universally loved Harrison composition.
5. “I Me Mine” (1970)
“I Me Mine” reflected Harrison’s growing interest in spirituality and his criticism of ego-driven behavior. Lennon later dismissed the song in interviews, suggesting it was less significant than some of the band’s other work.
Yet the song was written entirely by Harrison and became one of the final Beatles recordings. Its themes mirrored George’s philosophical outlook and showcased how far he had evolved from the quiet “junior songwriter” of the band’s early years.
Far from being a minor contribution, “I Me Mine” represented Harrison’s confidence as an artist at the end of The Beatles’ journey.
The Bottom Line
John Lennon and George Harrison shared a complicated relationship—one built on friendship, admiration, competition, and occasional disagreement. Lennon undoubtedly influenced Harrison’s development, just as Harrison influenced Lennon in later years.
But when it comes to songs like “Something,” “Here Comes the Sun,” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” the historical record is clear: these were George Harrison achievements. Despite occasional claims, suggestions, or reinterpretations over the years, Harrison’s authorship remains unquestioned.
In the end, George Harrison didn’t need to borrow anyone else’s legacy. He built one of his own.