John Lennon was a legend beyond his time, My father idolized this man since the start of the Beatles. Tragically he was shot and killed outside his apartment in New York City on this day December 8th in 1980, by a coward named Mark David Chapman, who thought that by killing Lennon he would acquire his fame.
Lennon was known for his social activism and anti-war rhetoric. He was a praised figure, full of wit and wisdom.
Lennon was born Oct. 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England. His first band, the Quarrymen, evolved into what became the Beatles in 1960. He and fellow band member Paul McCartney would go on to form one of the most successful songwriting partnerships of the 20th century, writing most of the group’s hits.
Lennon’s marriage to Japanese artist Yoko Ono in 1969 played a part in the disintegration of the Beatles a decade after the band’s formation. He went on to have a successful solo career, with hits including “Mother,” “Give Peace a Chance” and “Imagine.” After the Beatles broke up, and Ono gave birth to their son Sean, Lennon was about to start a new chapter in his life with the 1980 album “Double-Fantasy.” Alas, he was murdered just weeks after the release.
“I’m not claiming divinity. I’ve never claimed purity of soul. I’ve never claimed to have the answers to life. I only put out songs and answer questions as honestly as I can… But I still believe in peace, love and understanding.” – John Lennon
R.I.P. John Lennon, the world will never forget you
December 8th, 2011 at 5:14 pm
Imagine a world living in peace… John did and I tried to channel his world-embracing and loving energy this week with a tribute portrait inspired by his music and his passion for changing the world. You can see this new work of art in memoriam on my artist’s blog at http://dregstudiosart.blogspot.com/2011/12/john-lennon-just-imagine.html
January 1st, 2012 at 6:34 am
Awesome points! I am glad I found someone writing about this!