John Lennon

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The Beatles i Hötorgscity 1963

John Lennon (cropped)

Paul, George & John

John Lennon passport photo (cropped)

John Lennon (9 October 1940 – 8 December 1980) was an English singer, songwriter, and peace activist, who gained worldwide fame as the founder, co-lead vocalist, and rhythm guitarist of the Beatles. His songwriting partnership with Paul McCartney remains one of the most successful in music history. After the group disbanded in 1970, Lennon pursued a solo career and started the band Plastic Ono Band with his second wife, Yoko Ono.

Early Life

John Winston Lennon was born on 9 October 1940, in Liverpool, England, to Julia (née Stanley) and Alfred Lennon. He was raised by his aunt and uncle, Mimi and George Smith, in the Liverpool suburb of Woolton. Lennon became involved in music as a teenager, forming his first band, the Quarrymen, which eventually evolved into the Beatles in 1960.

The Beatles

The Beatles, formed with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, became one of the most influential bands in the history of popular music. Lennon's contributions to the band included iconic songs such as "Help!", "Strawberry Fields Forever", and "Come Together". The Beatles' success was marked by their innovative music and cultural impact, including their historic appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show and their role in the development of the 1960s counterculture.

Solo Career

After the Beatles disbanded, Lennon released acclaimed albums, including John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band and Imagine. His song "Imagine" is considered an anthem for peace. Lennon's activism and criticism of the Vietnam War led to a lengthy attempt by the Nixon administration to deport him from the United States.

Personal Life

Lennon married Cynthia Powell in 1962, and they had a son, Julian. The couple divorced in 1968. In 1969, he married Yoko Ono, with whom he collaborated on various musical projects and peace initiatives. They had a son, Sean, in 1975.

Death

John Lennon was murdered on 8 December 1980 by Mark David Chapman, a fan who had become obsessed with him, in front of his residence at the Dakota building in New York City. Lennon's death was met with worldwide mourning and has had a lasting impact on music and culture.

Legacy

Lennon is remembered as one of the greatest songwriters in music history. His work with the Beatles and his solo music continue to be celebrated for their innovation and emotional depth. Lennon has been the subject of numerous memorials and tributes, including the John Lennon Peace Monument in Liverpool and the Imagine Peace Tower in Iceland.

See Also

• The Beatles in popular culture
• List of peace activists
• British Invasion