The Hidden Truth About George Harrison Revealed by Leon Russell

Leon Russell, a rock and roll hall of famer known for his extraordinary versatility, shared a rare and profound insight into George Harrison’s life before his own passing.

Their paths crossed most notably during the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971, a pioneering benefit event organized by Harrison and Ravi Shankar to aid refugees of the Bangladesh Liberation War.

While the concert was widely celebrated, Russell’s account reveals the hidden burdens Harrison carried behind the scenes.

Born Claude Russell Bridges in 1942, Leon Russell was a seasoned musician whose career spanned decades and genres.

His nickname, “master of space and time,” reflected his ability to effortlessly transition between piano, guitar, arranging, and producing.

By the early 1970s, he was a respected figure in the music industry, known for his raw energy and musical intuition.

George Harrison, born in 1943 in Liverpool, had spent a decade as the Beatles’ lead guitarist.

Despite his immense talent, Harrison often found himself overshadowed by the dominant Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership.

His quiet ambition and deepening interest in Indian music and spirituality set him apart from his bandmates.

The Concert for Bangladesh was a massive undertaking, bringing together major artists like Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and Billy Preston.

Harrison’s role extended beyond performing; he managed logistics, coordinated artists, and bore the weight of the humanitarian cause.

Russell witnessed Harrison’s calm yet intense dedication, noting how Harrison absorbed criticism and pressure without losing focus.

Musically, their collaboration was marked by mutual respect.

When Russell joined Harrison on stage for “Beware of Darkness,” he supported rather than overshadowed the song, balancing his own style with Harrison’s vision.

Harrison appreciated Russell’s adaptability and trusted him to bring personal interpretation to the music.

However, beneath the triumphant public image, both men faced private struggles.

Russell was born with nerve damage that left his right side weaker, forcing him to adapt his playing style.

He also battled insecurity and professional setbacks throughout his career, including financial difficulties and strained business partnerships.

Harrison’s challenges were no less profound.

Inside the Beatles, he struggled for creative space and recognition.

Many of his songs were sidelined, and tensions with bandmates, especially Paul McCartney, were frequent.

His spiritual journey into Indian philosophy and Krishna consciousness offered solace but also complicated his public persona.

His personal life was marked by turmoil as well.

His marriage to Patty Boyd deteriorated amid infidelity and substance use, culminating in a very public heartbreak when Boyd left him for Eric Clapton.

Harrison’s later marriage to Olivia Arias brought more stability, but health issues and an intruder attack further tested his resilience.

Harrison’s battles extended to the business side of music.

The plagiarism lawsuit over “My Sweet Lord” cast a shadow over his songwriting confidence.

He also grappled with disputes over publishing rights and the management of the Beatles’ Apple Corps company.

Even the Concert for Bangladesh’s funds were delayed due to tax and legal complications.

Despite these hardships, Harrison maintained selective friendships with those who understood him, including Leon Russell.

Their bond was built on shared work ethic, mutual respect, and an understanding of music as a form of service rather than mere entertainment.

Russell admired Harrison’s quiet authority and commitment to purpose, while Harrison valued Russell’s energy and grounding presence.

Their collaboration at the Concert for Bangladesh remains a testament to how music can unite artists beyond fame and ego.

Leon Russell’s reflections invite us to see George Harrison not just as a Beatle or a spiritual seeker but as a complex individual navigating immense pressures and contradictions.

Their story reminds us that behind every legend lies a human being shaped by struggle, resilience, and connection.