This article is featured in Issue 02 of Esses, a fresh media outlet dedicated to exploring the intricate culture, art, and characters surrounding Formula 1. To secure your copy of Issue 02, subscribe to Esses here.
Discussing The Beatles can often feel like an overwhelming task. Every conceivable statement has already been made, every question posed and answered. This iconic band is akin to a complex puzzle, much like the mysteries of existence itself; one can dedicate a lifetime to deciphering their essence. As Carl Sagan famously remarked, “If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, go invent the universe.” To explore this topic, I will approach it as one would a cluttered desk: clear everything off and methodically place each item back, piece by piece.
The Beatles originated from Liverpool and consisted of four members—five if we include Billy Preston. They were, in many respects, ordinary individuals who produced some of the greatest albums in music history, all while being at the right place and the right time to effectuate profound historical changes. Today, they are celebrated as four of the most recognizable figures to ever exist, though Preston's fame pales in comparison.
By the dawn of the 1970s, they amassed an incomprehensible wealth and influence, marked by an astounding twenty Number One Hits—a record that continues to stand unchallenged. Their achievement of nineteen Number One Albums and a staggering two and a half years at the top of the charts is a testament to their unparalleled impact on music and culture.
In a world where monoculture has dissipated, the influence of The Beatles remains irreplaceable. Sir Paul McCartney embodies a rock star’s stature comparable to a religious figure—imagine a Pope who indulges in cannabis. John Lennon may have been tragically assassinated, but should we ever unlock the secrets of resurrection, he would undoubtedly be a top pick. Ringo Starr carved his niche, while George Harrison remains an enigmatic figure who transcends the typical narrative.
I often refrain from listening to The Beatles, similar to my hesitance in reading Shakespeare or watching Star Wars. Their work is so fundamental to our cultural lexicon that it feels exhausting and somewhat cliché. Yet, George Harrison provided a unique lens through which to appreciate the band without succumbing to the mainstream. Despite being the most famous guitarist on the planet, he offered a space for skepticism, appearing as an observer of fame and its trappings.
Looking like a chain-smoking actor with a lion's mane, Harrison, the youngest of the Beatles, exuded an aura of wisdom that belied his age. He portrayed a man who had ventured into the depths of life's existential void and returned, searching for answers to quell the internal noise that suggested something was fundamentally amiss. “By having money, we found that money wasn’t the answer,” he stated in a 1967 television interview. “We still lacked something. And that something is what religion strives to provide.” Whether termed peace, illumination, or divinity, his quest was genuine and devoid of commercial pretense—an earnest pursuit for enlightenment.
Enter Formula 1, a realm where Harrison found unexpected solace and inspiration. Much to my surprise, I discovered that this thrilling motorsport was a significant passion of his, rekindling his interest in music when he was on the verge of exiting the industry. Despite its relevance, Formula 1 is scarcely mentioned in Harrison's biographies, with one even omitting a chapter dedicated to his car collection, deeming it insignificant.
In 1955, a pivotal year for Harrison, the 12-year-old attended the Aintree Racecourse to witness legendary drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss. This experience ignited his lifelong obsession with racing, despite the tragic 24 Hours of Le Mans crash that claimed numerous lives around the same time Formula 1 was emerging. Racing became an integral part of his identity, overshadowing his academic pursuits.
“I remember the early, early days of the BRM; British Racing Motor—a patriotic thing, and it won a lot of races,” he reminisced in his 1980 memoir, I, Me, Mine. “As a kid, I used to write away and get photographs of all of them.” His fascination was rekindled as he fell in love with American Rock and Roll, especially the works of Chuck Berry, whose lyrics often celebrated the thrill of speed and freedom.
Fast forward to 1978; The Beatles had been disbanded for nearly as long as they had been together. Harrison's career was at a crossroads. While he had not written a single song in 1977, motorsport offered him an escape from the pressures of the music industry. He declared, “I just sort of forgot all about music and went to the races.” Even as he enjoyed the thrill of racing, the Formula 1 community encouraged him to create a song about motorsport. “Faster,” inspired by his friend Sir Jackie Stewart, emerged from this process, though it ultimately transcended mere racing themes.
Harrison's enduring love for cars and racing provided him with an almost therapeutic structure in his life. In the world of Formula 1, he could escape the spotlight and enjoy camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts, including legendary drivers. This community offered a sanctuary where he could be just another fan, not the famous Beatle.
Sir Jackie Stewart emphasized the healing nature of racing for Harrison, noting that it allowed him to connect with the essence of being alive, free from the shackles of fame. “Motorsport was his biggest escape,” Stewart remarked. “He loved that.” Such interactions and friendships helped Harrison maintain a semblance of normalcy in a life fraught with scrutiny.
In 1970, shortly after The Beatles parted ways, Harrison unveiled his monumental album, All Things Must Pass, signaling the emergence of a new era. Yet, his connection to Formula 1 remained understated even as he explored various artistic avenues. His passion for racing not only informed his creativity but also sustained his spirit during tumultuous times.
George Harrison's journey reveals the intricate balance between fame, passion, and the pursuit of authenticity. His love for Formula 1 was more than just a hobby; it was a vital part of his identity—a driving force that helped him navigate the complexities of life as one of the most celebrated musicians in history.
Ultimately, George Harrison's passion for Formula 1 showcases the profound intersections between creativity and personal pursuits. It highlights how a legendary figure can find joy and solace in the most unexpected places, reminding us all to seek out our own passions, no matter the circumstances. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists and fans alike.
