My 3rd nominee in my 2nd Beatles Solo Project is George’s Cloud Nine album from 1987. It was his first album in five years after the disappointing Gone Troppo. Cloud Nine was a remarkable return to form, and possibly his best solo album since All Things Must Pass (1970). I love all the songs on this one, including his #1 cover of James Ray’s “Got My Mind Set on You,” and “When We Was Fab,” “This is Love” and the title track. It also includes two songs rescued from Shanghai Surprise, the infamously bad movie he co-produced in 1986. (The 2004 reissue includes two other songs from the movie, including the title theme.) Unlike on his previous album, George sounded energetic throughout, jamming with his famous friends. Guest musicians included Ringo, Eric Clapton, Jeff Lynne, Elton John and Gary Wright. Not known to get nostalgic in public, “When We Was Fab” was George’s affectionate nod to his Beatles days, with Ringo on drums. “Got My Mind Set on You” was an obscure R&B number from 1962 that George always loved. Another track that deserves a mention is “Devil’s Radio,” his indictment on gossip and cynical talk radio shows. Cloud Nine was the last solo album released during George’s lifetime. His next two releases were as front man of the Traveling Wilburys supergroup.
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