The music video for “My Sweet Lord,” written and performed by George Harrison, was released in 1970. The song, which was the lead single from Harrison’s debut solo album “All Things Must Pass,” became a massive hit, topping charts all over the world. The video, which was directed by Paul McCartney’s brother-in-law, Peter Fenton, features a star-studded cast of musicians and celebrities. Here, we take a look at the “My Sweet Lord” video cast in order of appearance.
George Harrison
Of course, the video begins with George Harrison himself. He is shown sitting on a stool, playing his guitar and singing the opening lines of the song. Harrison, who was sometimes referred to as the “Quiet Beatle,” was known for his spiritual beliefs and his interest in Eastern religion. “My Sweet Lord” reflects these interests, with its lyrics about the Hindu god Krishna and its use of the Hare Krishna mantra.
Billy Preston
The next person we see in the video is Billy Preston, who was a frequent collaborator with the Beatles and other musicians of the era. Preston is shown playing the organ and singing backup vocals. He had a distinctive voice and was known for his keyboard skills, which he showcased in many recordings throughout his career.
Ringo Starr
Next up is Ringo Starr, the drummer for the Beatles. Starr is shown playing the drums and singing backup vocals. He and Harrison had a close friendship, and Starr would go on to perform with Harrison in his later solo projects.
Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton, one of the most famous guitarists of all time, appears next in the video. Clapton is shown playing lead guitar and singing backup vocals. He and Harrison had a long history of collaboration, dating back to the early days of the Beatles.
Klaus Voormann
Klaus Voormann, a German musician and artist, is next to appear in the video. Voormann is shown playing bass guitar and singing backup vocals. He was a close friend of the Beatles and had designed the cover art for their album “Revolver.”
Bobby Whitlock
Bobby Whitlock, an American musician who had played with Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, is next to appear. Whitlock is shown playing the piano and singing backup vocals. He and Harrison had become friends during the recording of “All Things Must Pass.”
Jim Gordon
Jim Gordon, a drummer who had played with many famous musicians including the Beach Boys and Derek and the Dominos, is next to appear in the video. Gordon is shown playing the drums and singing backup vocals. Unfortunately, Gordon’s later years were marred by mental illness, and he is currently serving a life sentence in prison for the murder of his mother.
Carl Radle
Carl Radle, a bass player who had also played with Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, is next to appear in the video. Radle is shown playing bass guitar and singing backup vocals. He and Harrison had become friends during the recording of “All Things Must Pass.”
Jim Keltner
Jim Keltner, a drummer who had played with many famous musicians including John Lennon, is next to appear in the video. Keltner is shown playing the drums and singing backup vocals.
Peter Frampton
Peter Frampton, a British guitarist who would go on to have a successful solo career, is next to appear in the video. Frampton is shown playing guitar and singing backup vocals.
Gary Wright
Gary Wright, an American musician who had played with Spooky Tooth, is next to appear in the video. Wright is shown playing the piano and singing backup vocals.
Billy Preston (again)
Billy Preston makes another appearance, this time playing the organ solo in the song’s instrumental break.
John Lennon
Finally, the video ends with a brief shot of John Lennon, who had recently left the Beatles and was in the midst of his own solo career. Lennon is shown standing in the background, clapping along to the song. His appearance was a surprise to many viewers at the time, as he had not been advertised as being part of the video.
And that’s the “My Sweet Lord” video cast in order of appearance. The video remains a beloved artifact of the early 1970s, capturing the spirit of the era and showcasing some of the greatest musicians of the time.
