The genesis of All Things Must Pass dates back to late 1968, after the tense sessions for The Beatles' White Album. A trip to the United States brought him closer to figures like Bob Dylan and The Band, with whom he experienced a sense of creative equality that contrasted with the dynamics within his former band. This period also revitalized his interest in the guitar, after a period dedicated to the study of the sitar. From this creative effervescence emerged songs that had been left out of The Beatles' releases, such as Isn't It a Pity and the title track. The production, which began in May 1970 at EMI studios in London, extended until October, with the collaboration of a large group of musicians, including Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Billy Preston, and members of Delaney & Bonnie's band, some of whom would form Derek and the Dominos. The result was a powerful sound, described by Ben Gerson of Rolling Stone as "Wagnerian, Brucknerian, the music of mountaintops and vast horizons."
The impact of All Things Must Pass was immediate and forceful. Not only did it reach number one on charts worldwide, but it was also critically acclaimed. The production, handled by Phil Spector, employed his distinctive "Wall of Sound" technique, giving the record a striking sonic dimension. The surprise at the maturity and solidity of Harrison's debut as a soloist was such that Richard Williams of Melody Maker compared it to Greta Garbo's first role in a talkie, exclaiming: "Garbo talks! – Harrison is free!". Over time, All Things Must Pass has been recognized as one of the most outstanding works by the ex-Beatles. In 2014, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and it has been certified platinum multiple times, solidifying its place in music history.
