Celebrating 50 Years of George Harrison’s ‘Living in the Material World

George Harrison’s critically acclaimed second solo album of original material, Living in the Material World, has reached its 50th anniversary. Released in May 1973, this spiritual and introspective album quickly resonated with audiences. It reached number one on U.S. albums and singles charts just five weeks after its release, with ‘Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)’ taking the top spot. The album’s success cemented Harrison’s post-Beatles career, with Rolling Stone praising it as a “pop classic” and calling it a radiant work of faith.

This album followed the success of Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, which topped the U.S. charts in 1971. In the same year, he also organised The Concert for Bangladesh at Madison Square Garden, a groundbreaking charity event. The live album from this concert became a commercial success and won the GRAMMY® Award for ‘Album of the Year.’

New 50th Anniversary Editions

Overseen by Harrison’s son Dhani and wife Olivia, the 50th-anniversary reissue of Living in the Material World features a full remix of the original album by GRAMMY® Award-winning engineer Paul Hicks, enhancing the album’s sound with a fresh and dynamic upgrade. The first release from this collection is an acoustic version of “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth) (Take 18).”

The new edition will be available in various physical and digital formats from 15th November, via DARK HORSE RECORDS/BMG, including a Super Deluxe Edition limited to 5,000 units worldwide. This box set will feature the remixed album on 2LP and 2CD, plus a bonus disc with 12 previously unreleased early takes of the album’s tracks. It will also include a Blu-ray disc with the original and unreleased tracks in Dolby Atmos, and a 7” single of a previously unheard version of ‘Sunshine Life For Me (Sail Away Raymond)’ featuring Robbie Robertson and other members of The Band alongside Ringo Starr.

The Super Deluxe Edition will be housed in a slipcase and include a 60-page hardcover book, unseen photos, handwritten lyrics, studio notes, and a 12-page booklet of recording notes from the album’s production. This package offers an unprecedented look into the making of Living in the Material World, with insights from the Harrison archive team that provide a fresh perspective on the album’s creation.

Deluxe and Vinyl Editions

In addition to the Super Deluxe Edition, the anniversary reissue will be available in Deluxe Editions on 2LP and 2CD. The 2LP Deluxe Edition will be presented in a gatefold sleeve with a 12-page booklet, while the 2CD version will come in a Clamshell Box, featuring two printed wallets, a 20-page booklet, and a poster. There will also be a standalone 1CD, 1LP, and a limited edition 1LP Purple Colour Vinyl, exclusive to the George Harrison online store.

Olivia Harrison commented on the re-release, encouraging listeners to either rediscover or experience the album for the first time, sharing George’s message of love and peace. Dhani Harrison also shared his enthusiasm, noting the album’s profound message for humanity and its relevance today.

An Album with a Timeless Message

Living in the Material World was created during a remarkable period in Harrison’s career. The album’s introspective tone reflected his spiritual journey and his search for meaning beyond material concerns. Harrison, who contributed nearly all of the guitar work on the album, was joined by a talented group of musicians including Jim Keltner, Klaus Voormann, Nicky Hopkins, Gary Wright, and Jim Horn. Their work together is evident in the album’s careful arrangements and the spiritual depth of its themes.

The album’s themes were shaped by Harrison’s experiences in 1971, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, which led to the landmark benefit concerts. The frustration he felt with world leaders and governments also found its way into the songs, particularly in tracks like “The Day The World Gets ‘Round.” In contrast, songs like “Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long” provided a sense of joyous pop energy.

This 50th-anniversary release not only offers a fresh take on the original recordings but also highlights the creative energy behind the album. The new mixes bring clarity and vibrancy, making the album even more relevant in 2024. In an age where mindfulness and spirituality are increasingly valued, the album’s message about navigating the material world feels more poignant than ever.