John Lennon

Gimme Some Truth - Live Vocal Out-Take from Ascot Sound Studios

Ascot Sound Studios
India

• In May 1971, during the recording of "Gimme Some Truth," John Lennon was deep into the creation of his landmark album *Imagine*, which was released la... Read Full Description >

  In May 1971, during the recording of "Gimme Some Truth," John Lennon was deep into the creation of his landmark album *Imagine*, which was released later that same year. By this point in his career, Lennon was successfully carving out a solo identity separate from The Beatles, and *Imagine* would become one of his most acclaimed works. The live vocal outtake from Ascot Sound Studios captures Lennon at a pivotal moment, as he sought to express his social and political views through music. The song itself reflects his desire for honesty and truth in both personal and global contexts, themes that resonated deeply during the tumultuous early 1970s. This period marked a significant evolution in his artistry, highlighting his role not just as a pop icon but as a thoughtful commentator on societal issues. Additionally, the *Imagine* album would later elevate his status as a solo artist and is often regarded as a defining moment in his legacy.

JEALOUS GUY - Live Performance by John Lennon and The Plastic Ono Band

Tittenhurst Park Studios
Ascot, England, United Kingdom

• In July 1971, during the recording of "Jealous Guy," John Lennon was freshly immersed in his solo career following the Beatles' disbandment. This perf... Read Full Description >

  In July 1971, during the recording of "Jealous Guy," John Lennon was freshly immersed in his solo career following the Beatles' disbandment. This performance captured a pivotal moment as it occurred shortly after the release of his highly acclaimed album *Imagine*, which came out in September 1971. The song "Jealous Guy" originally appeared on his earlier album *Plastic Ono Band* (released in 1970) and showcased a more vulnerable side of Lennon. Notably, the live recording at Tittenhurst Park Studios not only illustrates his evolving artistic expression but also highlights his collaboration with The Plastic Ono Band and the Flux Fiddlers, bringing a distinct intensity to his music. The performance exemplifies Lennon’s transition from a group member to a solo artist, reflecting both personal and political themes that resonated deeply during this period.

John Lennon Live Performance of 'Imagine' from RARE 1972 TV Show

John Lennon and Elton John Perform 'I Saw Her Standing There' at MSG

Madison Square Garden
New York, NY, United States

• On January 1, 1974, John Lennon performed at Madison Square Garden alongside Elton John, marking a significant moment in his career during a period of... Read Full Description >

  On January 1, 1974, John Lennon performed at Madison Square Garden alongside Elton John, marking a significant moment in his career during a period of artistic resurgence. Prior to this live recording, Lennon released his album "Mind Games" in 1973, which explored themes of personal and societal change, reflecting his evolving artistic vision. The performance of "I Saw Her Standing There," originally a Beatles hit, showcased Lennon's enduring connection to his Beatles roots while also embodying the collaborative spirit of the era, as he joined forces with Elton John, one of the biggest stars of the time. This concert also came during a phase where Lennon was re-engaging with live performances after a five-year hiatus from touring, emphasizing his desire to reconnect with audiences. The event has since become iconic, representing a pivotal moment of reunion and celebration in both artists' careers.

John Lennon - Mind Games Live Performance at Record Plant, NYC

Record Plant
New York, NY, United States

• On November 15, 1974, John Lennon was in a transitional phase of his career, having released the album "Mind Games" just a month prior, on November 2.... Read Full Description >

  On November 15, 1974, John Lennon was in a transitional phase of his career, having released the album "Mind Games" just a month prior, on November 2. This record marked a return to his solo work after a brief hiatus following the birth of his son, Sean, and his focus on family life. The performance recorded at the Record Plant featured arrangements by The Plastic U.F.Ono Band, showcasing Lennon’s unique blend of rock and introspective lyricism during this period. Notably, "Mind Games" explored themes of peace, love, and self-reflection, indicative of his ongoing artistic evolution. The recording not only highlights Lennon’s musical style at that time but also represents his resilience and commitment to creating meaningful music amidst personal changes.

Live Performance of 'Whatever Gets You Thru The Night' by John Lennon & Elton John at Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden
New York, NY, United States

Elton John & John Lennon Perform 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds' Live at Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden
New York City, NY, United States

• In November 1974, John Lennon made a significant appearance at Madison Square Garden as a special guest during Elton John’s concert. This performanc... Read Full Description >

  In November 1974, John Lennon made a significant appearance at Madison Square Garden as a special guest during Elton John’s concert. This performance came shortly after the release of his album "Walls and Bridges," which was released on September 26, 1974. The album included the hit single "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night," and coincidentally, this track was one of the three songs Lennon performed alongside Elton John that night, marking his first live performance in over three years. The collaboration between the two artists was historic as it showcased their friendship and mutual admiration, which had developed during the previous years. Lennon's appearance was particularly noteworthy because it signified a peak in his post-Beatles career, and the concert was also a part of a broader narrative around his return to live performing after focusing on family and solo work. The event is still celebrated as a memorable moment in music history, highlighting Lennon's enduring impact.

John Lennon Performs 'Imagine' Live (1975)

• On January 1, 1975, John Lennon performed "Imagine" live, during a period that marked a significant phase in his artistic journey. This performance to... Read Full Description >

  On January 1, 1975, John Lennon performed "Imagine" live, during a period that marked a significant phase in his artistic journey. This performance took place shortly after the release of his album "Walls and Bridges" in September 1974, which showcased his introspective songwriting and incorporated elements of rock and pop. Additionally, this live rendition came just before the release of "Rock 'n' Roll" in 1975, an album focusing on classic rock covers. Notably, this performance was linked to a televised event, emphasizing Lennon's commitment to artistic expression and social commentary. It also heralded a brief return to the public eye after a hiatus from music, as he had spent a considerable amount of time away from the spotlight to focus on family and personal life. Lennon's dedication to peace and political activism continued to resonate in his performances, notably during this live rendition of "Imagine," a song synonymous with his message of hope and unity.

17th GRAMMYs: Paul Simon and John Lennon Present Record Of The Year

GRAMMY Museum
Los Angeles, CA, United States

• In February 1975, at the 17th Grammy Awards, John Lennon was still riding on the success of his mid-1970s solo career, having released the album "Wall... Read Full Description >

  In February 1975, at the 17th Grammy Awards, John Lennon was still riding on the success of his mid-1970s solo career, having released the album "Walls and Bridges" in 1974. This album featured hits like "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night," which had reached number one on the charts, marking a significant comeback for Lennon after a period of relative quiet in his solo work following his departure from The Beatles. Notably, during this event, Lennon co-presented the award for Record of the Year with Paul Simon, highlighting his prominent place in the music industry alongside contemporaries. The unveiling of the "John Lennon, Songwriter" exhibit at the GRAMMY Museum further underscores his enduring legacy and influence in music, as it was part of the celebrations marking his 70th birthday, reflecting both his cultural impact and the appreciation of his songwriting genius.

Queen + Paul Rodgers Perform 'Imagine' Live at Hyde Park Concert

Hyde Park
London, United Kingdom

• The live performance of "Imagine" by Queen + Paul Rodgers in Hyde Park is a tribute to John Lennon, whose original song remains one of his most enduri... Read Full Description >

  The live performance of "Imagine" by Queen + Paul Rodgers in Hyde Park is a tribute to John Lennon, whose original song remains one of his most enduring and influential works. This performance, featured as a bonus on the "Return of the Champions" live DVD, takes place well after Lennon's career as a solo artist, which was marked by significant albums such as "Double Fantasy," released shortly before his tragic death in 1980. This album, which featured tracks that emphasized love and peace, gained critical acclaim and commercial success, revitalizing Lennon's career. Notably, "Imagine," released in 1971, has become an anthem for peace and has been covered by numerous artists, underscoring Lennon's lasting impact on music and culture. The choice to perform this song at a major event such as a Queen concert highlights the universal resonance of Lennon's work, bringing together fans across generations.