In the vast tapestry of musical history, few figures have left an indelible mark quite like John Lennon. As a co-founder of The Beatles and a luminary solo artist, Lennon’s lyrical genius, rebellious spirit, and poignant melodies have resonated across generations. Crafting a definitive list of the “10 Best John Lennon Songs of All Time” is no small feat, given the abundance of timeless classics that form the backbone of his unparalleled legacy. From the infectious optimism of his early compositions to the introspective and politically charged anthems of his solo career, Lennon’s musical odyssey reflects the evolution of an artist unafraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. This article embarks on a journey through the sonic landscape of Lennon’s prolific career, exploring the depth of his artistry and the emotional resonance that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a long-time Lennon aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the essence of one of music’s most iconic figures, join us as we delve into the heart of Lennon’s discography to unveil the “10 Best John Lennon Songs of All Time.”
1. (Just Like) Starting Over
(Just Like) Starting Over,” released in 1980 as the lead single from John Lennon’s album “Double Fantasy,” stands as one of his most iconic and poignant songs. The track marked Lennon’s return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus, and its upbeat, rock-infused sound reflected a sense of renewal and optimism. The lyrics, laden with themes of love and new beginnings, resonated with fans and critics alike. The catchy melody and Lennon’s heartfelt vocals contributed to the song’s commercial success, earning it the top spot on charts around the world. Sadly, just weeks after the release, John Lennon was tragically assassinated, adding an unintended layer of depth and melancholy to the song’s legacy.
“(Just Like) Starting Over” remains a timeless testament to John Lennon’s enduring influence and ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level. Its lasting impact is evident in its continued popularity, with the song often featured in retrospectives of Lennon’s career and celebrations of his musical legacy. The poignant lyrics and the melodic brilliance of the song ensure that it holds a special place in the hearts of fans, encapsulating both the joy of new beginnings and the bittersweet awareness of life’s transience.
2. Give Peace A Chance
“Give Peace a Chance,” released in 1969 during the peak of the anti-war movement, stands as one of John Lennon’s most powerful and enduring anthems for peace. Recorded during his Bed-In for Peace protest with Yoko Ono in Montreal, the song became an instant rallying cry for those advocating for an end to the Vietnam War and a call for global harmony. The simplicity of the lyrics, featuring the iconic refrain “All we are saying is give peace a chance,” captured the spirit of the times and became a powerful mantra for a generation yearning for change.
The song’s impact extended far beyond its musical qualities. Its raw, unpolished recording, featuring a chorus of diverse voices singing for peace, created a sense of unity and solidarity. “Give Peace a Chance” quickly became an anthem for social and political movements around the world, transcending its initial context. Decades later, the song’s relevance endures as a timeless plea for peace and a reminder of John Lennon’s role not only as a musical icon but also as a passionate advocate for social justice. The song’s enduring popularity and continued use in various movements underscore its status as a timeless and universal call for a more peaceful world.
3. Whatever Gets You thru the Night
“Whatever Gets You thru the Night,” released in 1974 as a single from John Lennon’s album “Walls and Bridges,” showcases a departure from his usual introspective and contemplative style. With its upbeat tempo, funky rhythm, and the inclusion of Elton John on backing vocals and piano, the song reflects a more lighthearted and celebratory side of Lennon’s musical repertoire. The lyrics convey a message of encouragement and resilience, emphasizing the importance of finding personal coping mechanisms to navigate the challenges of life.
The collaboration with Elton John adds a dynamic element to the track, contributing to its infectious energy and widespread appeal. “Whatever Gets You thru the Night” became Lennon’s only solo number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 during his lifetime, adding another layer of significance to the song. The success of the single highlighted Lennon’s ability to experiment with musical styles while maintaining his distinctive voice and songwriting prowess. Today, the song stands as a testament to John Lennon’s versatility as an artist and his capacity to connect with audiences through a range of emotions, from the introspective to the joyous, making it a memorable and cherished piece in his extensive musical legacy.
4. Watching The Wheels
“Watching the Wheels,” featured on John Lennon’s 1980 album “Double Fantasy,” offers a contemplative and introspective glimpse into Lennon’s perspective on fame, societal expectations, and his personal choices. Released just months before his tragic death, the song reflects Lennon’s intentional withdrawal from the music industry to focus on family life and personal reflection during a hiatus. The lyrics convey a sense of contentment with his decision to step away from the public eye, addressing the skepticism and confusion surrounding his newfound domesticity.
Musically, “Watching the Wheels” features a laid-back arrangement with a melodic and soothing quality, showcasing Lennon’s ability to deliver a profound message within an accessible and engaging framework. The song’s chorus, with Lennon singing “No longer riding on the merry-go-round; I just had to let it go,” encapsulates the essence of his desire for a more authentic and meaningful existence outside the pressures of fame.
In hindsight, “Watching the Wheels” takes on a poignant significance as a reflection on Lennon’s life choices and the transient nature of fame. The song remains a touching reminder of the artist’s introspective journey and his commitment to prioritizing personal well-being over external expectations, making it a timeless and relatable piece in the John Lennon canon.
5. Mother
“Mother,” a haunting and emotionally charged track from John Lennon’s debut solo album “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” released in 1970, delves deep into the artist’s psyche, confronting themes of loss, abandonment, and the complexities of his relationship with his parents. The minimalist production, featuring Lennon’s raw vocals and a stark piano accompaniment, creates an intimate atmosphere that intensifies the emotional impact of the song.
The lyrics of “Mother” are deeply personal, with Lennon addressing the pain of losing his parents at an early age. The repetition of the word “Mother” in the chorus, coupled with gut-wrenching screams, conveys a raw and unfiltered expression of grief. The song serves as a cathartic exploration of Lennon’s troubled childhood, delving into the primal emotions that shaped his identity.
“Mother” is often regarded as one of Lennon’s most powerful and emotionally charged compositions. It showcases his willingness to lay bare his innermost feelings and vulnerabilities through his art. The stark honesty of the song has resonated with listeners, providing a glimpse into the tumultuous emotional landscape of one of the most influential figures in music history. “Mother” remains a poignant and timeless testament to the power of music as a vehicle for personal expression and healing.
6. How Do You Sleep
“How Do You Sleep,” featured on John Lennon’s 1971 album “Imagine,” is a scathing musical indictment aimed squarely at his former Beatles bandmate, Paul McCartney. Widely regarded as one of the most biting and direct diss tracks in the history of music, the song reflects the animosity between the two iconic musicians during a period marked by legal battles and personal animosities following the Beatles’ breakup.
Lennon’s lyrics pull no punches, with pointed jabs at McCartney’s musical contributions and perceived betrayal. Lines like “The only thing you done was yesterday / And since you’re gone, you’re just another day” and references to “those freaks was right when they said you was dead” allude to the persistent “Paul is dead” conspiracy theory circulating at the time. The acerbic tone is further emphasized by the song’s edgy musical arrangement, featuring a hard-rock sound and intense guitar work.
Despite its confrontational nature, “How Do You Sleep” is a testament to the complexities of interpersonal relationships and the emotional fallout from the dissolution of one of the greatest musical partnerships in history. The song remains a striking chapter in the post-Beatles era, capturing the intensity of the emotions and conflicts that characterized Lennon’s life during this period.
7. Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is a Christmas anthem co-written by John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Released in 1971 as a single by the Plastic Ono Band with the Harlem Community Choir, the song blends the festive spirit of the holiday season with a powerful anti-war message. The lyrics convey a message of hope and peace, urging listeners to reflect on the state of the world and envision a future free from conflict.
The song’s memorable refrain, “War is over, if you want it,” encapsulates the essence of Lennon and Ono’s message – a call to individual responsibility and collective action for a world without war. The inclusion of the Harlem Community Choir adds a joyous and communal dimension to the track, enhancing its holiday appeal.
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” has become a timeless classic, played ubiquitously during the holiday season. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to seamlessly blend festive elements with a socially conscious message, creating a unique and impactful contribution to the Christmas music canon. Beyond its musical qualities, the song serves as a reminder of John Lennon’s commitment to using his platform for activism and promoting a message of peace, making it a cherished and relevant piece of his legacy.
8. #9 Dream
“#9 Dream,” a track from John Lennon’s 1974 album “Walls and Bridges,” is a dreamlike and enigmatic composition that showcases Lennon’s experimental and artistic inclinations. The song’s ethereal quality is immediately apparent, driven by a lush arrangement and dreamy production. The title itself is a nod to Lennon’s fascination with the number nine, a recurring theme in his life and art.
The lyrics of “#9 Dream” are surreal and impressionistic, reflecting Lennon’s interest in incorporating elements of his dreams into his music. The chorus features the repeated refrain “Ah, böwakawa poussé, poussé,” which Lennon later explained was inspired by a dream where a voice was chanting those words. This dreamlike quality, coupled with the atmospheric instrumentation, creates a captivating and otherworldly listening experience.
Despite its somewhat cryptic nature, “#9 Dream” resonates with listeners through its captivating melody and Lennon’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song stands as a testament to Lennon’s ability to merge the personal and the artistic, inviting listeners into the imaginative landscapes of his mind. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of mystery and introspection, making it a unique and memorable entry in John Lennon’s body of work.
9. Imagine
“Imagine,” released in 1971 as the title track of John Lennon’s iconic album, is undeniably one of the most celebrated and enduring songs in the history of music. The composition reflects Lennon’s utopian vision for a world of peace and unity, transcending boundaries and divisions. The song’s simplicity and universal message have made it a timeless anthem for hope and harmony.
The piano-driven melody of “Imagine” provides a gentle backdrop to Lennon’s poignant lyrics, which encourage listeners to envision a world without borders, religions, or possessions. The refrain “Imagine all the people living life in peace” resonates as a powerful and optimistic call for collective imagination and social change. The song’s popularity has endured through the decades, becoming a global anthem for peace and a symbol of the idealistic aspirations that many share.
“Imagine” is not only a musical masterpiece but also a reflection of Lennon’s personal and political beliefs. It stands as a testament to his commitment to using his art to advocate for a better world. The song’s impact has transcended generations, continuing to inspire and unite people in their shared dream of a more harmonious and compassionate world.
10. Instant Karma
“Instant Karma! (We All Shine On),” released in 1970, represents a unique and spontaneous moment in John Lennon’s solo career. The song is known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and the sense of urgency conveyed in both its music and lyrics. Recorded and released within a matter of days, “Instant Karma” captures the essence of Lennon’s creativity and his desire to produce immediate and impactful art.
The song features a stellar lineup of musicians, including George Harrison, Klaus Voormann, and Alan White, and was produced by Phil Spector. The recording session reportedly came about on a whim, with Lennon inviting musicians to the studio to create a song on the spot. The result was a vibrant and infectious track that became an instant success.
Lyrically, “Instant Karma” explores themes of accountability and cause-and-effect, with the central message being that we reap what we sow. The chorus with the refrain “We all shine on” adds an uplifting and optimistic touch to the song’s philosophical undertones.
“Instant Karma” stands out not only as a testament to Lennon’s spontaneity and musical prowess but also as a reflection of the countercultural spirit of the time. Its rapid creation and subsequent success underscore Lennon’s ability to capture the zeitgeist and produce impactful music that resonates with audiences.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
