About the Song
While The Beatles‘ catalog brims with iconic hits and beloved classics, there are hidden gems scattered throughout their discography that often get overshadowed. One such treasure lies nestled at the end of their sprawling 1968 double album, simply titled The Beatles (more affectionately known as the “White Album”). “Long, Long, Long,” penned by George Harrison, is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the band’s introspective side and Harrison’s growing songwriting prowess.
At first listen, the song might strike you as understated, even simple. It unfolds slowly, with a hushed, almost reverent atmosphere. Harrison’s delicate vocals, tinged with a touch of melancholy, draw you in as he sings of longing and spiritual yearning. But beneath this seemingly straightforward surface lies a depth of emotion and musical intricacy that reveals itself gradually, like a slowly blooming flower.
The song’s power lies in its subtle nuances. Ringo Starr’s understated drumming provides a gentle pulse, while Paul McCartney’s melodic bass lines intertwine with Harrison’s acoustic guitar, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The instrumentation is sparse yet effective, leaving ample space for the lyrics and vocals to breathe. And then there’s that mesmerizing organ part played by Chris Thomas, which adds an ethereal, almost ghostly quality to the track.
“Long, Long, Long” is a song that invites repeated listens. Each time you return to it, you’ll discover new layers of meaning and appreciate the subtle interplay between the instruments and vocals. It’s a testament to The Beatles‘ ability to create magic even in their most understated moments. So, let’s delve into the mystical depths of this often-overlooked gem and explore the beauty that lies within.
Video
Lyrics
It’s been a long long long time
How could I ever have lost you
When I loved you
It took a long long long time
Now I’m so happy I found you
How I love you
So many tears I was searching
So many tears I was wasting, oh oh
Now I can see you, be you
How can I ever misplace you
How I want you
Oh I love you
You know that I need you
Ooh I love you