George Harrison and Ravi Shankar in Los Angeles, California, 1967 John Malmin, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0

George Harrison Quiz

How much do you know about George Harrison?

Welcome to the Ultimate George Harrison Quiz! Are you ready to test your knowledge about the 'quiet Beatle', the legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter of The Beatles?

George Harrison was not just a vital part of the world's most famous band, but also a successful solo artist and a profound spiritual explorer.

This quiz will take you through a journey of his life, music, and legacy. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering his magic, let's see how much you know about George Harrison.

Get ready to dive into the world of melodies, mysticism, and the quiet genius of George. Let's begin!

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Questions and answers about George Harrison

• What band was George Harrison a member of?

  George Harrison was a member of The Beatles, one of the most famous and influential bands in the history of rock music. As the lead guitarist of the band, Harrison contributed to the unique sound that made The Beatles a global phenomenon. His time with The Beatles established Harrison as a significant figure in the world of music.

  • The Beatles
  • The Rolling Stones
  • The Who
  • The Kinks

• What was George Harrison's debut solo album after The Beatles' breakup?

  George Harrison's debut solo album after The Beatles' breakup was "All Things Must Pass." Released in 1970, this triple album was a massive commercial success and received critical acclaim. It showcased Harrison's songwriting and musical talent, solidifying his position as a successful solo artist in the post-Beatles era.

  • All Things Must Pass
  • Living in the Material World
  • Dark Horse
  • Cloud Nine

• In which year was George Harrison born?

  George Harrison was born in 1943. His birthplace is Liverpool, England, where he grew up and later became a part of The Beatles, contributing significantly to the band's musical direction. Harrison's early life in Liverpool played a crucial role in shaping his musical style and artistic vision.

  • 1943
  • 1940
  • 1942
  • 1945

• What was the name of the supergroup George Harrison formed with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty?

  George Harrison formed the supergroup "The Traveling Wilburys" with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty. This group came together in the late 1980s and released two albums. The Traveling Wilburys were notable for the collaboration of these major figures in rock music, each bringing their unique talents to the project.

  • The Traveling Wilburys
  • The Highwaymen
  • The Dirty Mac
  • Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

• What spiritual practice deeply influenced George Harrison's music and life?

  George Harrison was deeply influenced by Hinduism and Indian culture, both in his music and in his life. He embraced Hindu philosophy, meditation, and the music of India, integrating these elements into his work with The Beatles and his solo career. Harrison's interest in Indian spirituality was a significant aspect of his artistic identity and personal beliefs.

  • Hinduism and Indian culture
  • Buddhism
  • Christianity
  • Sufism

• Which George Harrison album features the hit song "My Sweet Lord"?

  The George Harrison album that features the hit song "My Sweet Lord" is "All Things Must Pass." Released in 1970, "My Sweet Lord" became a hugely popular single and is one of Harrison's most well-known songs. The song reflects his spiritual beliefs and showcases his talent as a songwriter and musician.

  • All Things Must Pass
  • Living in the Material World
  • Dark Horse
  • Cloud Nine

• What musical instrument was George Harrison particularly known for playing?

  George Harrison was particularly known for playing the guitar. As the lead guitarist of The Beatles, Harrison's guitar work was integral to the band's sound. He was known for his innovative and expressive guitar playing, and he also experimented with various types of guitars and musical styles throughout his career.

  • Guitar
  • Sitar
  • Piano
  • Ukulele

• In what city was George Harrison born?

  George Harrison was born in Liverpool, England. As a key member of The Beatles, Harrison's upbringing in Liverpool significantly influenced his musical journey and contributions to the band. The city's culture and music scene during his formative years played a crucial role in shaping his artistic development.

  • Liverpool
  • London
  • Manchester
  • Birmingham

• Which famous event did George Harrison organize to support Bangladesh in 1971?

  George Harrison organized the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971 to support Bangladesh during its liberation war. This benefit concert was one of the first major music events of its kind, bringing together an array of artists to raise awareness and funds for a humanitarian cause. The event set a precedent for future charity concerts in the music industry.

  • Concert for Bangladesh
  • Live Aid
  • Woodstock
  • Global Citizen Festival

• What was the first song written by George Harrison that was included on a Beatles album?

  George Harrison's first original song to be included on a Beatles album was "Don't Bother Me," which appeared on their 1963 album "With The Beatles." This song marked Harrison's debut as a songwriter for the band.

  • Don't Bother Me
  • Do You Want to Know a Secret
  • I'm Happy Just to Dance with You
  • Something

• Which Indian musician did George Harrison collaborate with?

  George Harrison collaborated with Indian musician Ravi Shankar. Shankar, a master of the sitar, deeply influenced Harrison and introduced him to Indian music and culture. Their collaboration helped popularize Indian music in the West and marked a significant period in Harrison's musical exploration and spiritual journey.

  • Ravi Shankar
  • Ustad Zakir Hussain
  • Anoushka Shankar
  • Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia

• What was the title of George Harrison's autobiography?

  The title of George Harrison's autobiography is "I, Me, Mine." Published in 1980, the book offers insight into Harrison's life, career, and his time with The Beatles. "I, Me, Mine" includes Harrison's reflections on his music, personal anecdotes, and philosophies, providing a unique perspective on his journey as an artist.

  • I, Me, Mine
  • Living in the Material World
  • While My Guitar Gently Weeps
  • Here Comes the Sun: My Life with The Beatles

• What inspired George Harrison to write the Beatles' song "Something"?

  "Something in the Way She Moves" by James Taylor, featured on his 1968 debut album, inspired George Harrison to write "Something." This connection was highlighted by James Taylor during his stage banter at The Star in Frisco on July 31, 2017. Taylor played "Something in the Way She Moves" as part of his audition before signing with Apple Records, where McCartney and Harrison were present.

  • A song by James Taylor
  • A poem by George Harrison
  • An instrumental piece by Ravi Shankar
  • A photograph of Pattie Boyd

• What was the name of George Harrison’s film production company?

  George Harrison’s film production company was named HandMade Films. Founded in 1978, HandMade Films was responsible for producing several successful and critically acclaimed films. The company provided Harrison with a creative outlet outside of music and made significant contributions to the British film industry.

  • HandMade Films
  • Dark Horse Productions
  • Harrison Pictures
  • Apple Films

• Which song did George Harrison write in tribute to John Lennon after his death?

  George Harrison wrote the song "All Those Years Ago" in tribute to John Lennon after his death. Released in 1981, the song is a heartfelt homage to Lennon, reflecting on their time together in The Beatles and lamenting his untimely passing.

  • All Those Years Ago
  • Something
  • Here Comes the Sun
  • My Sweet Lord

• What is the name of George Harrison's estate located in Henley-on-Thames?

  George Harrison's estate located in Henley-on-Thames is named Friar Park. The estate, which Harrison purchased in 1970, features extensive gardens and a Victorian Gothic mansion, and it was a significant place of inspiration and solace for him.

  • Friar Park
  • Strawberry Fields
  • Abbey Road
  • Apple Park

• What is significant about George Harrison's album "Wonderwall Music" in relation to The Beatles?

  "Wonderwall Music," released in 1968, holds a special place in The Beatles' history. It was the first solo album by a member of The Beatles and the first LP to be released on their Apple Records label.

  • It was the first solo album by a member of The Beatles and the first LP released on Apple Records.
  • It was the last album recorded by The Beatles.
  • It was the only instrumental album ever released by a member of The Beatles.
  • It was the first album by a Beatle to feature Indian classical music exclusively.

• Who inducted George Harrison into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist?

  George Harrison was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist by Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne. The ceremony took place in 2004, and it was a testament to Harrison's enduring legacy and influence in music.

  • Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne
  • Ringo Starr and Eric Clapton
  • Bob Dylan and Neil Young
  • Elton John and Phil Collins

• In which Beatles film did George Harrison first express his interest in Indian culture?

  George Harrison first expressed his interest in Indian culture in the Beatles film "Help!" Released in 1965, the film features a scene where Harrison encounters a group of Indian musicians, sparking his fascination with the sitar and Indian music.

  • Help!
  • A Hard Day's Night
  • Yellow Submarine
  • Magical Mystery Tour

• What's the name of the posthumous studio album released by George Harrison?

  The posthumous studio album released by George Harrison was "Brainwashed." Completed by his son Dhani and Jeff Lynne, the album was released in 2002, a year after Harrison's death.

  • Brainwashed
  • Cloud Nine
  • Living in the Material World
  • Thirty Three & 1/3

• Which song did George Harrison write that was inspired by his garden?

  George Harrison wrote the song "Here Comes the Sun" that was inspired by his garden. He composed this classic track in the garden of Eric Clapton's house, where he was taking a break from business meetings and finding solace in the peaceful surroundings.

  • Here Comes the Sun
  • My Sweet Lord
  • Something
  • Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)

• Which Beatles song is credited to both George Harrison and John Lennon?

  The Beatles song credited to both George Harrison and John Lennon is "Cry for a Shadow." This instrumental track, recorded in 1961, was originally titled "Beatle Bop." It's notable as the only Beatles track credited to Harrison and Lennon together, showcasing their early collaboration before the band's rise to fame.

  • Cry for a Shadow
  • While My Guitar Gently Weeps
  • Something
  • I Me Mine

• How many times was George Harrison married?

  George Harrison was married twice. His first marriage was to model Pattie Boyd in 1966, and they divorced in 1977. Harrison then married Olivia Trinidad Arias in 1978, with whom he remained until his death in 2001. Both marriages were significant parts of Harrison's life, influencing his music and personal journey.

  • Twice
  • Once
  • Three times
  • Never

• What was the name of the tour George Harrison embarked on in 1974?

  George Harrison embarked on the "Dark Horse Tour" in 1974. This tour was his first solo tour and took place in North America. The Dark Horse Tour was notable for its eclectic mix of music, including Harrison's solo work and popular Beatles songs, although the tour received mixed reviews at the time.

  • Dark Horse Tour
  • Living in the Material World Tour
  • All Things Must Pass Tour
  • Cloud Nine Tour

• Which album did George Harrison release after a five-year hiatus in 1987?

  After a five-year hiatus, George Harrison released the album "Cloud Nine" in 1987. This album marked a successful comeback for Harrison, featuring hits like "Got My Mind Set on You." "Cloud Nine" received critical and commercial success, reestablishing Harrison as a significant solo artist in the late 1980s.

  • Cloud Nine
  • Somewhere in England
  • Gone Troppo
  • Brainwashed

• What was the title of the posthumous album released by George Harrison?

  The title of the posthumous album released by George Harrison is "Brainwashed." Released in 2002, the album was completed by his son Dhani Harrison and Jeff Lynne. "Brainwashed" includes songs that Harrison was working on before his death, offering a final glimpse into his musical genius and artistic spirit.

  • Brainwashed
  • Living in the Material World
  • All Things Must Pass
  • Cloud Nine

• Which famous comedian appeared in his music video "Crackerbox Palace"?

  The famous comedian who was a close friend of George Harrison and appeared in his music video "Crackerbox Palace" was Eric Idle. Idle, best known as a member of the Monty Python comedy troupe, had a long-standing friendship with Harrison. Their shared sense of humor was evident in the whimsical and quirky "Crackerbox Palace" video.

  • Eric Idle
  • John Cleese
  • Robin Williams
  • Billy Connolly

• What was the first instrument George Harrison learned to play?

  George Harrison's first instrument was a guitar, specifically a Dutch Egmond flat-top acoustic guitar, purchased by his father in 1956 for £3.10s. This early acquisition marked the beginning of Harrison's journey into music, eventually leading to his iconic role in The Beatles.

  • Guitar
  • Sitar
  • Ukulele
  • Piano

• Who played lead guitar on George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" for The Beatles?

  Eric Clapton played the lead guitar on George Harrison's song "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" for The Beatles. This collaboration is notable as it was somewhat unusual for The Beatles to have a non-member play on their recordings, especially in such a prominent role. Clapton's contribution added a distinct touch to one of Harrison's most celebrated compositions.

  • Eric Clapton
  • Jimmy Page
  • Jeff Beck
  • Jimi Hendrix

• What year was George Harrison posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award?

  George Harrison was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. This prestigious award was a recognition of his significant contributions to music both as a member of The Beatles and as a solo artist. Harrison's influence and legacy in the music world continue to be celebrated long after his passing.

  • 2015
  • 2013
  • 2005
  • 2003

• What unique instrument did George Harrison play on the Beatles song "Norwegian Wood"?

  On the Beatles song "Norwegian Wood," George Harrison played the sitar, a unique instrument that he introduced to Western pop music. This song, from the 1965 album "Rubber Soul," was one of the first Western rock songs to feature the sitar, reflecting Harrison's growing interest in Indian music and culture.

  • Sitar
  • Tabla
  • Sarod
  • Tambura

• In what year did George Harrison release his experimental album "Electronic Sound"?

  George Harrison released his experimental album "Electronic Sound" in 1969. This album was a departure from his usual work, featuring two lengthy tracks composed entirely on the Moog synthesizer. "Electronic Sound" was an exploration of avant-garde electronic music and showcased Harrison's willingness to experiment with new musical forms.

  • 1969
  • 1972
  • 1967
  • 1970

• What was the name of George Harrison's record label, founded in 1974?

  George Harrison founded the record label "Dark Horse Records" in 1974. This label was a platform for Harrison to produce his own music and support other artists. Dark Horse Records released several of Harrison's albums and works by other artists, reflecting his broader interests in the music industry and artist development.

  • Dark Horse Records
  • Apple Records
  • HandMade Records
  • Material World Records

• What harrowing event happened to George Harrison at his Friar Park home in December 1999?

  In December 1999, George Harrison experienced a life-threatening incident at his Friar Park home. He was seriously injured in an attack by an intruder, an event that was extensively covered by the media. This incident underscored the security risks faced by public figures.

  • He was seriously injured by an intruder.
  • He was involved in a fire accident.
  • He faced a legal battle over property rights.
  • He was caught in a natural disaster.

George Harrison in the Oval Office during the Ford administration. David Hume Kennerly, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

About George Harrison

George Harrison, born on February 25, 1943, in Liverpool, England, is renowned for his role as the lead guitarist of The Beatles, one of the most influential bands in rock music history. Often referred to as "the quiet Beatle," Harrison's contributions to music went beyond his work with The Beatles. He embraced Indian culture and significantly influenced popular music by incorporating Indian instruments and Hindu-aligned spirituality into The Beatles' work.

Although John Lennon and Paul McCartney were the primary songwriters for The Beatles, Harrison also contributed memorable songs from 1965 onwards. Some of his notable compositions include "Taxman," "Within You Without You," "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," "Here Comes the Sun," and "Something." His musical influences ranged from George Formby and Django Reinhardt to Carl Perkins, Chet Atkins, and Chuck Berry.

Harrison was pivotal in leading The Beatles into folk rock through his interest in Bob Dylan and the Byrds. His introduction of the sitar on songs like "Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)" exemplified his pioneering role in blending Western and Eastern musical styles. He was also a key figure in popularizing Transcendental Meditation and had a close association with the Hare Krishna movement.

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Harrison embarked on a successful solo career. His triple album "All Things Must Pass" included the hit single "My Sweet Lord" and showcased his signature slide guitar sound. He was also involved in organizing the 1971 Concert for Bangladesh with Indian musician Ravi Shankar, setting a precedent for future benefit concerts like Live Aid.

Besides his musical career, Harrison was a music and film producer, founding Dark Horse Records in 1974. He co-founded HandMade Films in 1978, initially to produce Monty Python's "The Life of Brian."

Harrison was married twice, first to model Pattie Boyd in 1966, with whom he later divorced, and then to Olivia Arias in 1978, with whom he had a son, Dhani. He was a lifelong cigarette smoker and died of lung cancer on November 29, 2001, at the age of 58. His remains were cremated and scattered in the Ganges and Yamuna rivers in India, in accordance with Hindu tradition.

Harrison's impact on music is significant, as evidenced by his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice – once as a member of The Beatles and posthumously for his solo career. His legacy continues to influence musicians and music lovers around the world

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