In November 2002, one year after the death of former Beatle George Harrison, his wife Olivia and close friend Clapton assembled some of the best musicians in the business for a tribute concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Former Beatles McCartney and Starr perform Harrison’s music, along with other friends and band mates. Petty and Lynne regroup to play a Travelling Wilburys song, and the surviving members of Monty Python also show up to sing “The Lumberjack Song.” Who could ask for anything more?
Why we love it
Too long in the shadow of Lennon and McCartney’s staggering songbook, Harrison’s own music takes center stage for this jam-packed, star-studded musical evening. It also pays tribute to his life-long loves and influences; Indian music kicks off the night, and Joe Brown shuts it down with a moving performance of “I’ll See You In My Dreams” on ukulele. In addition, Clapton, who served as musical director for this, gives a heart-breaking rendition of the classic “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” There’s even a surprise appearance by Tom Hanks as a Canadian Mountie! In all, this Concert does full justice to the memory of an outstanding musician and human being.