*Cloud Nine*, released in 1987, stands as a pivotal album in George Harrison's solo career, marking his return to recording after a five-year hiatus. This eleventh studio album was a collaborative effort, notably featuring Jeff Lynne as co-producer, and brought Harrison back into the mainstream spotlight with its hit single, "Got My Mind Set on You." The album's creation involved a renewed sense of enthusiasm from Harrison, who had previously stepped
away from music to pursue other interests, including film production.
Background and Recording Process
By the early 1980s, George Harrison had become frustrated with the evolving musical landscape, leading him to suspend his recording career. During this period, he focused on his film company, Handmade Films, with only occasional soundtrack contributions or charity songs surfacing. However, by late 1986, Harrison felt a renewed desire to create music. He reached out to Jeff Lynne, the former leader of Electric Light Orchestra, to co-produce his new album.
Recording for *Cloud Nine* commenced on January 5, 1987, at Harrison's home studio, Friar Park, located in Henley-on-Thames. Over the course of several months, from January to March, backing tracks for seventeen songs were laid down. The overdubs were then completed by August 1987. This intensive period of work reflected Harrison's re-engagement with his musical craft, resulting in his first new commercial album in half a decade.
Key Collaborators and Musical Contributions
The production of *Cloud Nine* was a collaborative affair, bringing together a roster of talented musicians alongside Harrison and Lynne. Jim Keltner and Ringo Starr contributed on drums, providing a solid rhythmic foundation for the tracks. Eric Clapton lent his distinctive guitar skills to the album, adding another layer of musical depth. Piano duties were shared by Gary Wright and Elton John, with John participating while recovering from vocal surgery at the time. This blend of seasoned musicians helped shape the album's diverse sound.
Jeff Lynne's role as co-producer was particularly significant. His influence is evident in the album's polished sound, which helped to modernize Harrison's music while retaining his signature style. Lynne's involvement extended beyond production; he would later join Harrison in forming the Traveling Wilburys, a supergroup that also included Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Roy Orbison, further demonstrating the creative synergy between Harrison and Lynne.
Album Art and Lasting Impact
The album's cover art features George Harrison holding his 1957 Gretsch 6128 Duo Jet, his first American-made guitar, which he had purchased in Liverpool in 1961. This guitar, affectionately known as his "old black Gretsch," had been given to his friend Klaus Voormann for two decades before Harrison requested its return for the *Cloud Nine* cover shoot after having it restored. This personal touch on the album cover underscored Harrison's connection to his musical roots.
*Cloud Nine* proved to be a critical and commercial success, re-establishing Harrison as a significant recording artist. While the album's triumph did not immediately spur him to tour, it reignited his passion for music, leading directly to the formation of the Traveling Wilburys. The album remains Harrison's final solo studio album released during his lifetime, with his subsequent album, *Brainwashed*, appearing posthumously in 2002. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim solidify *Cloud Nine*'s place as a highlight in George Harrison's extensive discography.
