"Robben Ford discusses the peculiarities of the Dark Horse tour, during which he worked with George Harrison for nine months, revealing Harrison's discomfort in his role as band leader"
In 1974, George Harrison embarked on his first solo tour following the breakup of the Beatles, known as the Dark Horse Tour. Spanning 45 shows across the U.S. and Canada in November and December, the tour aimed to support Harrison's fifth solo album, Dark Horse, which was released that December[1][2].
The tour, however, was marked by a series of challenges and controversies. Harrison struggled with severe laryngitis throughout the tour, leading to his voice becoming hoarse and affecting his performance[1]. As a result, the tour was often criticised and mockingly referred to as the "Dark Hoarse" tour.
Fans were also left disappointed by the scarcity of Beatles songs in the setlist and the lengthy Indian music segment performed by Ravi Shankar, the tour's supporting act[1]. These factors combined led to widespread critical and fan dissatisfaction.
Harrison felt extreme pressure and emotional distress during this period, describing it as “the nearest I got to a nervous breakdown” in his 1980 autobiography, I, Me, Mine[1]. The tour came together quickly, with Harrison juggling album recording, rehearsing his band, and planning the cross-country tour in a tight schedule, which critics noted contributed to a less polished live show[2].
Despite these difficulties, the album Dark Horse reached number 4 on the Billboard charts, and the single "Dark Horse" reached number 15 in the U.S., though both did less well in the UK[2].
Harrison assembled a talented backing band for the tour, including renowned musicians such as guitarist Robben Ford. Ford, who had just finished a stint touring with Joni Mitchell, reflected on the highs and lows of touring with Harrison during this challenging period. The band had to cope not only with Harrison's vocal problems but also with the demanding schedule and mixed reception from audiences[1].
One of the highlights of the tour was Harrison's visit to the White House, invited by President Gerald Ford’s son[2]. Another significant moment was Harrison's performance of While My Guitar Gently Weeps, where he and Ford traded guitar parts.
In retrospect, Harrison's 1974 North American tour is remembered as a brave but troubled venture with significant vocal and audience challenges, an accomplished backing band, and moments of cultural significance such as the White House visit[1][2]. Despite the difficulties, the tour helped solidify Ford's reputation as a wunderkind guitar player.
Harrison did not tour again until 1991, and that was only for a brief Japanese jaunt with Eric Clapton. The 1974 tour remains a notable chapter in Harrison's post-Beatles career, showcasing his resilience and determination to forge a successful solo career.
[1] Rolling Stone, "George Harrison's 1974 North American Tour: A Rough Ride," accessed on March 10, 2023, https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/george-harrison-1974-north-american-tour-a-rough-ride-142817/
[2] Ultimate Classic Rock, "George Harrison's 1974 North American Tour: A Look Back," accessed on March 10, 2023, https://ultimateclassicrock.com/george-harrison-1974-north-american-tour-look-back/
- George Harrison, known for his Les Paul electric guitar, performed on his first solo tour in 1974, playing various guitars like Stratocaster and Fender during the shows.
- The Dark Horse Tour included a diverse set of music genres, such as Indian music, chords from his album, and even some pedal effects for an electric guitar to enhance the entertainment value.
- Critics often noted the demanding nature of the tour, due to the short scheduling and the struggles Harrison faced with his laryngitis, affecting both his voice and guitar performances.
- Despite the controversies and criticism, the album Dark Horse reached the 4th spot on the Billboard charts, demonstrating the enduring appeal of music and Harrison's songwriting.
- Harrison's tour hosted renowned musicians like Robben Ford, who admired the highs and lows of the experience, having to cope with Harrison's vocal problems and the demanding tour schedule.
- One of the tour highlights was Harrison's visit to the White House, and another was his performance of While My Guitar Gently Weeps, where he and Ford traded impressive guitar parts.
- Going forward, the 1974 Dark Horse Tour remains a significant chapter in Harrison's post-Beatles career, showcasing his persistence and dedication to forging a successful solo career through music.
