Here Comes the Sun – The Full Story of the Beatles Classic

What Is the Meaning of “Here Comes the Sun”?

“Here Comes the Sun” is widely regarded as one of George Harrison’s most uplifting compositions. The lyrics are commonly interpreted as reflecting Harrison’s relief at the arrival of spring and a temporary break from the stress of The Beatles’ business affairs. The song’s repeated “here comes the sun” refrain gives it a buoyant, optimistic tone that matches that reading.

Harrison wrote the song during a period when he was becoming disillusioned with the music industry. According to accounts from the 1970s, he took a day off from Beatles meetings and composed the track at Eric Clapton’s house. The sun breaking through clouds became a metaphor for his personal escape from corporate pressures.

Who Wrote and Originally Performed “Here Comes the Sun”?

George Harrison is the sole writer and lead vocalist of “Here Comes the Sun.” The song appears on The Beatles’ 1969 album Abbey Road, released on 26 September 1969, and is sequenced as the first track on side two of the LP. It was recorded at EMI Studios in London during July and August 1969.

Harrison’s acoustic guitar leads the track, and the recording also features Moog synthesizer, which he had brought into the band’s sound after acquiring an early model in California. The composition includes time signature changes, reflecting Harrison’s continuing interest in Indian classical music and more complex rhythmic structures. One source notes that an arpeggiated guitar idea in the song’s bridge was similar to material associated with “Badge,” a collaboration between Harrison and Eric Clapton from that era.

Overview at a glance

Key insights

• The song was written by George Harrison in 1969 at a time when he was becoming disillusioned with the music business.
• It was recorded in spring 1969 and features acoustic guitar, Moog synthesizer, and a distinctive handclap rhythm.
• The lyrics describe the arrival of spring and a sense of optimism after a long winter, often interpreted metaphorically.
• Despite being a George Harrison composition, the song is sometimes mistakenly attributed to Paul Simon or Paul McCartney.

Fact table

What Are the Chords and Lyrics for “Here Comes the Sun”?

The song is played in the key of A major with a 4/4 time signature. The chord progression is relatively simple, built around A, D, E, and Bm, with a bridge that introduces G and C. Guitarists often use a capo at the 7th fret to match Harrison’s recording, but the song can be played in open position as well.

The lyrics are succinct and repetitive, reinforcing the optimistic refrain. The full text is widely available on sites such as Genius, where the verses describe the end of winter and the chorus celebrates the sun’s return.

Chord progression (verse)

A – D – A – E – F#m – D – E – A

Bridge

Bm – D – G – D – A – E – A

Musicians note that the track is led by Harrison’s acoustic guitar, with a handclap rhythm that is easy to replicate. The melody is diatonic and suits beginner to intermediate players.

Are There Notable Live Recordings or Remixes of “Here Comes the Sun”?

The Beatles are generally understood not to have performed “Here Comes the Sun” live as a band. However, George Harrison performed it at The Concert for Bangladesh in 1971, accompanied by Pete Ham. He also sang it as a duet with Paul Simon on Saturday Night Live in 1976. A live version from Harrison’s 1991 Japan tour with Eric Clapton appears on Live in Japan.

Remixes include the 2006 project Love, created for the Cirque du Soleil production. That version was assembled by George Martin and Giles Martin and incorporates elements from other Harrison-era Beatles material. A 2019 stereo remix was prepared by Giles Martin and engineer Sam Okell for the Abbey Road 50th anniversary editions.

The song has been widely covered by artists such as Richie Havens, Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, Nina Simone, George Benson, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Peter Tosh, and Joe Brown. Two of the better-known hit cover versions named in sources are by Richie Havens and Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel.

Timeline of “Here Comes the Sun”

1. Early 1969 – George Harrison takes a day off from Beatles business meetings and writes the song at Eric Clapton’s house.
2. Spring 1969 – Recording sessions at EMI Studios; Harrison on vocals and acoustic guitar, Paul McCartney on bass, Ringo Starr on drums, and Eric Clapton on acoustic guitar (uncredited).
3. 26 September 1969 – Released on the album Abbey Road.
4. 1970s–present – Countless covers, live performances by solo George Harrison, and inclusion in films and commercials.
5. 2020–2024 – Surge in streaming popularity; used in AI-generated covers and remixes; often featured in ‘sunrise’ playlists.

What We Know vs. What Is Speculated

Analysis and Cultural Context

“Here Comes the Sun” is often cited as a turning point for George Harrison, showcasing his growth as a songwriter. The song’s simple yet uplifting structure, featuring a bright A major key and a memorable 4/4 handclap rhythm, became a staple of feel-good music. It was one of the first Beatles songs to prominently feature a Moog synthesizer (played by Harrison). The track’s enduring popularity is reflected in its billions of streams and frequent use in media symbolizing hope and new beginnings.

Key Quotations and Sources

“I was just walking around the garden and suddenly the sun came out. It was such a relief after all the business nonsense.”

– George Harrison (interview, 1970s)

“Harrison wrote the song at Eric Clapton’s house, using an acoustic guitar, and the demo was recorded on 7 July 1969.”

– Wikipedia (citing The Beatles recording sessions)

“The song is about the relief Harrison felt after a period of being overwhelmed by the Beatles’ business affairs.”

– Genius.com annotation

Additional authoritative sources include Wikipedia, The Beatles official website, and the official audio on YouTube.

What’s Next for “Here Comes the Sun”?

As streaming continues to grow, the song will likely remain a perennial favorite. Potential future developments include new official remastered releases (e.g., 2029 Abbey Road 60th anniversary), AI-generated covers, and continued use in advertising and film. No major legal or controversy is anticipated. For more on Beatles music, see Away in a Manger Lyrics – Full Text, History, Printable Versions.

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