Behind That Locked Door

When you encounter Behind That Locked Door, the first thing that stands out is its country music feel, something not so common in George Harrison's repertoire. The song was conceived in August 1969, intended as a message of encouragement for Bob Dylan. At that time, Dylan was preparing for his return to the stage with a major show at the Isle of Wight Festival, accompanied by The Band. Harrison's lyrics speak of Dylan's elusive nature and the great respect he felt for his work. In fact, it is the second time Harrison has dedicated a song to his friend, after I'd Have You Anytime from 1968. The recording, which took place in London in early summer 1970, features the notable participation of Nashville's virtuoso pedal steel player, Pete Drake, and two keyboardists, Gary Wright and Billy Preston, who contributed layers of sound in the style of The Band. Unlike the more ambitious production that characterizes All Things Must Pass, this piece is distinguished by a more subtle performance.

The album All Things Must Pass, where Behind That Locked Door is included, was released in November 1970. It was George Harrison's first solo work after the breakup of The Beatles in April of the same year. This triple album, released by Apple Records, showcased Harrison's evolution as an artist, influenced by his collaborations with musicians such as Bob Dylan, The Band, Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, and Billy Preston between 1968 and 1970. In Behind That Locked Door, that connection with American music is perceived, and indeed, Alan Smith of the NME described it as a mix of country and Hawaii. An alternative version of this song can be found on the 2012 compilation, Early Takes: Volume 1.