Photo: George Harrison in Maui
In 1980, Genesis Publication released I Me Mine, the first of many collaborations between Beatles guitarist, singer, and songwriter George Harrison and publisher Brian Roylance. Cherished by fans the world over, the book is now being re-released as an extended edition, which will officially launch with a pop-up exhibition and store at Shepard Fairey’s Subliminal Projects, Los Angeles, on Sunday, February 26, 2017, from 12:00–6:00 p.m.
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The event, which honor’s Harrison’s 74th birthday, will feature an exhibition of his handwritten lyrics and personal commentary on his songs, pictures from the family albums, and original portraits of Harrison by Shepard Fairey. The exhibition will also include rare limited editions on display such as I Me Mine, Songs by George Harrison 1 and 2, Concert for George, Fifty Years Adrift, and Live in Japan.
Paul McCartney, John Lennon & George Harrison, 1959
The pop-up store will feature framed prints and books by Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono, Ronnie Wood, and Sir Peter Blake celebrating the genius of George Harrison and honoring his legacy. A special I ME MINE package has been created for the exhibition, consisting of the new book, a poster and book bag; the first 100 customers will receive copies signed by Shepard Fairey.
I Me Mine: The Extended Edition is a feat of publishing, now stretching to 632 pages, with lyrics to 59 songs not previously included (for a total of 141 songs) and new photographs, many unpublished until now. The handwritten lyrics are beautifully reproduced in facsimile, accompanied by Harrison’s uniquely intimate and humorous commentary.
George Harrison in the studio, 1969
The book, which is the closest thing we have to a memoir, features Harrison in conversation with friend and former Beatles press officer Derek Taylor. Here, he discusses everything from his upbringing in Liverpool and the growth of early Beatlemania, to his love of India, gardening, and racing cars. It also includes
written contributions from Olivia Harrison and original cover art by Shepard Fairey.
“All the world is birthday cake, so take a piece, but not too much,” Harrison wisely observed, and though he is not here to join us for the celebration, his art, his wisdom, and his spirit live on.
All photos: Courtesy of Genesis Publications.
Miss Rosen is a journalist covering art, photography, culture, and books. Her byline has appeared in L’Uomo Vogue, Whitewall, Dazed Digital, Jocks and Nerds, and L’Oeil de la Photographie. Follow her on Twitter @Miss_Rosen.
