Art of Dying

In Art of Dying, George Harrison explores the idea of reincarnation, positing that the "art" of existence lies in the ability to limit our actions and thoughts. The consequence of these actions, according to the lyrics, is what determines whether the soul returns to another earthly life. This composition, with a sound that approaches hard rock and which some have described as a precursor to disco, was recorded with a group of notable musicians. Among them are Eric Clapton and the members of Derek and the Dominos, along with Gary Wright, Billy Preston, and a young Phil Collins, who contributed percussion. The production of this piece was handled by Phil Spector.

The song was conceived between 1966 and 1967, a period during which Harrison was deeply immersed in Hinduism. The lyrics were written even before the dissolution of The Beatles, although the song did not see the light of day until the release of his album All Things Must Pass in November 1970. This triple album marked Harrison's first solo work after the band's separation in April of that same year. Art of Dying stands out on the album for its energetic guitar work and dark atmosphere, evoking the psychedelic rock and heavy metal of the era.