- Published on 1970
- Author: Harrison
- Track 4 on “Let It Be“
GEORGE 1980: “‘I Me Mine’ is the ego problem. I looked around and everything I could see was relative to my ego. You know, like ‘that’s my piece of paper,’ and ‘that’s my flannel,’ or ‘give it to me,’ or ‘I am.’ It drove me crackers– I hated everything about my ego– it was a flash of everything false and impermanent which I disliked. But later I learned from it– to realize that there is somebody else in here apart from old blabbermouth. ‘Who am I’ became the order of the day. Anyway, that’s what came out of it: ‘I Me Mine’ …it’s about the ego, the eternal problem.”
About “I Me Mine”
“I Me Mine” was written by George Harrison. The song was released on the album Let It Be in 1970. The recording of “I Me Mine” marked one of the last times the Beatles recorded together before their official breakup. The sessions for this album were known for their tension and discord within the band, which eventually led to their dissolution.
George Harrison recorded the song with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, as John Lennon had temporarily left the band at that point. “I Me Mine” is notable for its bluesy guitar riff and distinctive sound, which is characteristic of Harrison’s musical style. Musically, “I Me Mine” features a distinctive bluesy guitar riff and a somewhat unconventional structure. It showcases George Harrison’s evolving style as a songwriter, with a focus on introspection and philosophical themes.
In addition to the studio version, there is also a demo version of “I Me Mine” recorded during the Let It Be sessions, where George Harrison sings and plays acoustic guitar. This version was later included in the 1996 compilation album Anthology 3.
“I Me Mine” stands as one of George Harrison’s notable contributions to The Beatles’ catalog and offers insight into his philosophical and spiritual interests during this period.
Meaning of “I Me Mine”
“I Me Mine” is a phrase used to encapsulate the idea of self-centeredness or ego. The song’s lyrics reflect Harrison’s exploration of Eastern philosophies, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism, which emphasize the importance of transcending the ego and achieving a state of selflessness or oneness with the universe.
The title “I Me Mine” is a play on words, suggesting the possessiveness and self-serving nature of individual desires and attachments. In the context of the song, it serves as a commentary on the human tendency to prioritize one’s own needs and desires above those of others.
The lyrics of “I Me Mine” convey a message about the potential dangers of self-centeredness and the benefits of letting go of the ego. They encourage a perspective that values interconnectedness and the well-being of all beings over the pursuit of personal gain.
In conclusion, “I Me Mine” serves as a philosophical reflection on the nature of self and the importance of spiritual growth beyond mere self-interest, which was a theme that resonated with George Harrison’s personal beliefs and spiritual journey.
Personnel
The Beatles
- George Harrison – lead and harmony vocals, acoustic guitars, lead guitars
- Paul McCartney – harmony vocal, bass guitar, Hammond organ, electric piano
- Ringo Starr – drums
Additional musicians
- Uncredited – 18 violins, four violas, four cellos, harp, three trumpets, three trombones
- Uncredited – female choir
- Richard Hewson – brass and string arrangements
