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John Lennon Remembered 25 Years Later |
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By Timothy M. Bruderek “Excuse me, Mr. Lennon?” These were the words uttered by Mark David Chapman, only seconds before he fired four bullets into the back of one of rock music’s most important icons on December 8, 1980. Now 25 years later, these words still haunt both Beatles and rock music fans worldwide, and bring a painful reminder of the tragedy of the life of a genius, cut short at the age of 40. John Lennon’s brutal and senseless murder was not only a devastating loss for both the music world and recent history, but it was a sad piece of irony that none could have expected. John Lennon worked tirelessly for the peace movement, many times risking his own reputation and alienating himself from mainstream society. With touching songs like “All You Need Is Love” and “Give Peace A Chance,” Lennon reminded all listeners that peace was within reach and was easy to achieve in every day life. His murder brought a sad end to a hopeful message and to a man whose philanthropic work inspired generations to live a positive life. The Beatles were undoubtedly one of the most important and revolutionary bands in the history of music, and their breakup in 1970 brought an end to the world’s most creative partnership, as well as the progressive and liberated spirit of the 1960’s. At the end of the decade, the Vietnam War was in full force and the conservative Nixon regime had taken control of the White House. By this time, revolution was abounding, and Vietnam War protests were alive and growing in all four corners of the United States. It was then that John Lennon became the official spokesman of the peace movement, and his presence could be seen and felt throughout the world. The beginning of the decade saw Lennon at his most creative, releasing a string a hit singles written with the message and feeling of the changing times. These included the stirring anthem “Give Peace A Chance,” the inspiring “Instant Karma! (We All Shine One)” and the captivating call-to-action “Power To The People.” John Lennon was everywhere, and was introducing peace into everyone’s vernacular. Lennon then recorded the most stark and haunting album of his career, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band. With his first solo album, he presented his deepest pain and rawest emotions on a startling album of minimally produced songs. Though not a commercial hit, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band presented Lennon at his most vulnerable. 1971 saw the release of Lennon’s biggest commercial and creative hit album, Imagine. Lennon carried on his mantra of peace and political awareness with the ballad “Imagine,” which brought some daring notions into the mainstream, and wrapped them in a gorgeous hymn, which became a mega-hit throughout the world. Lennon released the follow-up to Imagine, entitled Some Time in New York City, which was an extended package of overwrought political tunes, most of which were weak and lacking in originality. Following this, Lennon sought a lower political profile, but managed to release a series of inspired and inventive albums, including Mind Games, Walls and Bridges and Rock ‘N’ Roll, which was a collection of his favorite songs from the 50’s rock and roll era, with his own personal spin on each. John Lennon turned 35 on October 9, 1975, the same day his first son with wife Yoko Ono, Sean, was born. Sean’s birth brought about a significant change to Lennon’s life: the decision to settle into a domestic role to raise his son, and the start of a five-year hiatus from making music. Lennon literally hung up his guitar, and forgot about music for the next few years. Sean became the central figure in Lennon’s life, and he was rarely seen without his son in his arms. Lennon was beginning to find the joy and contentment for which he had been searching his whole life. Near the end of the 1970’s, John Lennon once again hit a creative peak, and began quickly churning out some of his best songs to date. He made a triumphant return to the music business, recording what would be his last album, Double Fantasy, which was a collaboration with wife Yoko Ono. Double Fantasy became both a critical and commercial success, and brought about a new, creative phase in the life of John Lennon. With a hit album and number one single (“Just Like Starting Over”), Lennon was on top of the world. In late hours of December 8, 1980, John Lennon was taken from this earth in a deadly act of violence. Mark David Chapman, a disturbed and obsessed fan and religious zealot, shot Lennon four times in the back as he entered his New York City apartment. His death brought a shocking end to the dream of peace and innocence to the world. Lennon’s spirit and love of humanity inspired people worldwide, and his music brought hope to those struggling to survive in a harsh, violent world. This year saw the 25th anniversary of Lennon’s death, and his presence is felt now more than ever. A quarter century later, Lennon’s music is still as popular as it was during the turbulent 70’s, and his revolutionary message of peace is just as relevant today. People of all ages, religions and races will continue to relate to the music of John Lennon, and his legacy will live on for generations to come. |
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