Pattie Boyd: Overview
Pattie Boyd, born on March 17, 1944, in Taunton, Somerset, England, is a renowned English model, photographer, and author. She is famously known for her marriages to two iconic rock musicians: George Harrison of The Beatles and Eric Clapton. Her life and relationships with these musicians have had a significant impact on popular culture and music history.
Early Life and Modelling Career
Pattie Boyd began her career as a model in the early 1960s, becoming one of the most sought-after models in London. She appeared in numerous magazines and advertising campaigns, establishing herself as a prominent face in the fashion industry. Her striking looks and charisma made her a muse for many photographers of the era.
Pattie Boyd: Meeting George Harrison
Boyd’s connection to The Beatles began in March 1964 when she was cast as a schoolgirl in the Beatles’ first film, “A Hard Day’s Night.” However, Pattie was 19 years old when she was acting the part.
During the filming, she met George Harrison, the band’s lead guitarist. Harrison was immediately smitten and asked her out.
At the time, Boyd was dating photographer Eric Swayne, but she soon ended that relationship and started dating Harrison.
Pattie Boyd: Marriage to George Harrison
Pattie Boyd and George Harrison married on January 21, 1966, at Epsom Register Office, with Paul McCartney as their best man. Their marriage made Boyd a significant part of The Beatles’ inner circle, providing her with a first hand view of the band’s dynamics and the cultural revolution they were spearheading.
Influence on The Beatles’ Music
Pattie Boyd’s influence on George Harrison and The Beatles’ music is notable. Harrison wrote several songs inspired by her, including the classic “Something,” which Frank Sinatra once described as “the greatest love song of the past 50 years.” Other songs inspired by Boyd include “I Need You” and “For You Blue.”
Pattie Boyd: Life with The Beatles
During her marriage to Harrison, Boyd experienced the peak of Beatlemania. She travelled with the band and was present during the recording of some of their most famous albums. Boyd witnessed the band’s evolution from pop stars to cultural icons, observing their creative processes and the tensions that eventually led to their breakup.
Spiritual Journey
Boyd and Harrison shared a deep interest in spirituality, particularly Indian philosophy and Hinduism. In 1968, they traveled to Rishikesh, India, to study transcendental meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, along with the other members of The Beatles. This trip had a significant impact on The Beatles’ music, leading to the creation of songs with Indian influences.
Marriage Difficulties and Divorce
Despite their deep connection, Boyd and Harrison’s marriage faced many challenges. Harrison’s infidelities and the pressures of his career strained their relationship. Boyd also struggled with her own issues, including feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1977.
Pattie Boyd: Relationship with Eric Clapton
During her marriage to Harrison, Eric Clapton, a close friend of Harrison, fell deeply in love with Boyd. Clapton’s unrequited love for Boyd inspired the song “Layla,” a classic rock anthem about longing and heartache. After her divorce from Harrison, Boyd and Clapton began a relationship and married in 1979. Clapton wrote several other songs for Boyd, including “Wonderful Tonight.”
Later Life and Legacy
Pattie Boyd’s marriage to Clapton also faced difficulties, including Clapton’s substance abuse and infidelity. They divorced in 1989. After her divorces, Boyd focused on her career as a photographer, capturing many iconic images of the rock stars she knew personally.
In 2007, she published her autobiography, “Wonderful Today” (also known as “Wonderful Tonight” in the U.S.), detailing her life with Harrison and Clapton and her experiences during the 1960s and 1970s.
Cultural Impact
Pattie Boyd remains a symbol of the 1960s rock ‘n’ roll era, celebrated for her beauty, style, and her influence on some of the greatest love songs in rock history. Her relationships with George Harrison and Eric Clapton have cemented her place in the annals of music history, illustrating the complex interplay between personal lives and creative inspiration.
Pattie Boyd: In Summary
Pattie Boyd’s life intertwined deeply with the story of The Beatles, especially through her marriage to George Harrison. Her presence influenced the band’s music and she experienced first hand the highs and lows of one of the most significant cultural movements of the 20th century. Her relationships with both Harrison and Clapton have left an indelible mark on rock music, making her an iconic figure in her own right.
Pattie Boyd married three times. After her divorces from Harrison and Clapton (1989), she married Rod Weston, a property developer, in 2015. She has two daughters, Dani and Stella, from her first marriage to Clapton.
Pattie Boyd is a true icon of the Swinging Sixties and beyond. Her captivating beauty, artistic collaborations, and personal journey have left an indelible mark on popular culture. As a muse, model, author and photographer, she has inspired countless others and continues to fascinate fans of all ages.
The Beatles Fan Club has this article about Pattie Boyd due to her marriage to George Harrison. So, what do you remember about this era?
