The legendary George Harrison had a lively infatuation with the ukulele. Known for its charmingly small size and uplifting sound, the ukulele is a companion suitable for musicians of all levels, from novices to seasoned pros. As Joe Brown, an old acquaintance of Harrison, once fondly observed, “You can pick up a ukulele and anyone can learn to play a couple of tunes within mere hours. Yet, achieving true mastery is an endless journey.” Meeting Harrison and The Beatles back in 1962, Brown was struck by Harrison’s expansive musical interests, well beyond rock and roll. As Brown recalled, George was no “musical snob,” often excitedly sharing unique records, from Hoagy Carmichael to vintage Hawaiian melodies.
Harrison’s passion for the ukulele was so profound it even permeated his personal notes. In a charming message from 1999, he mentioned, “Everyone I know who loves the ukulele is ‘crackers’—you simply can’t play it without giggling!” This instrument radiated Harrison’s optimistic spirit, sustaining his good cheer through life’s challenges, including his battle with cancer beginning in 1997 and the terrifying attack on his life two years later. Posthumously, Harrison’s affinity for the ukulele manifested in heartfelt tributes. At a memorial concert in Royal Albert Hall, Joe Brown gently strummed “I’ll See You In My Dreams” on the ukulele, while Paul McCartney paid homage by playing “Something” on a ukulele during a performance at NYC’s Citi Field.
McCartney’s memories of Harrison often involved evenings of musical nostalgia. “Visiting George’s home invariably led to a ukulele jam session,” he warmly remembered. In 1988, Harrison joined an acoustic jazz ensemble, featuring Jools Holland, to deliver an enchanting rendition of “Between The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” a classic number that later appeared on his posthumous album, Brainwashed. Another spontaneous collaboration caught Harrisson, McCartney, and Ringo Starr in a harmonious rendition of the 1927 charmer “Ain’t She Sweet.”
Owning a lush retreat in Hawaii, where he was affectionately called Keoki, George was known for his generous spirit, famously purchasing ukuleles in bulk to gift them away. This may stand as legend, but it aligns perfectly with his known altruism. In one of his last home videos, Harrison is seen joyfully strumming and whistling, exuding tranquility despite his battle with throat cancer.
And for extra delight:
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Josh Jones
is a writer and musician based in Durham, NC. Follow him at @jdmagness
