John Lennon

A poster displaying John Lennon's single, Imagine (http://img2.allposters.com/images/153/0817-John-Lennon-Imagine.jpg)

Music throughout the years has impacted and affected mankind. Artists like Michael Jackson or Bob Marley have changed the world through music. One rock icon, however, contributed his musical talent to advocate peace. John Lennon, the leader of The Beatles, promoted peace and love through music.

"The famous rock star did not have much of a pleasant life as a child. John was born and raised in Liverpool, England in October 9th, 1940, with his father abandoning him as an infant, and his mother dying while he was still a child. He was mostly raised by his Aunt Mimi during most of his childhood" (McLeese).

While growing up, Lennon was heavily influenced by rock n' roll. Eventually meeting up with Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr around the early 1960's, they create The Beatles. Starting their career as a band, they played popular gigs at the Cavern Club in England. Their stardom really began in 1963, with popularity skyrocketing and numerous #1 hits. The group, also known as the Fab Four, were thought as the face of rock n' roll, performing on the Ed Sullivan Show and The Hollywood Bowl. Their golden age lasted through 1963-68, known as 'Beatlemania'. After divorcing from his first wife, John Lennon married Yoko Ono in 1968. Yoko, a Japanese environmental artist, became an immense part of John's life and music career. During the late 60's, the group slowly began to fall apart, releasing their last album, Abbey Road, and playing their last public performance on the rooftops of the Apple Studios. After their long run, the band went their separate ways, each continuing solo careers. Lennon's music group, The Beatles, still remain to be one of the biggest hits in music history and will be remembered for generations to come.

John Lennon, more than just a phenomenal song writer, was also a promoter of peace. He created musical masterpieces to help society with songs like 'Imagine' and 'Give Peace a Chance'. His lyrics presented his understanding and his dreams of a world with everyone living in harmony. His other works such as 'Revolution' and 'Happy X-mas (War is Over)' convey to people the message that violence and war is never the answer.

Aside from being a musical sensation, John Lennon fought and for supported many causes and peace efforts. Lennon, also known for being a serious donator, was heavily against racism, violence, and war. He and his wife, Yoko Ono, created the Spirit Foundation, donating to many local police forces. John also "performed at many peace and anti-war concerts such as Live Peace in Toronto and Live in New York City which gave benefit to the blind" (Belz).

John Lennon effectively used his musical talents for the good of humanity, inspiring millions to join his dream of world peace. He used his fame and celebrity status as an advantage to benefit the world. He was also well known for speaking his views on war and politics.

One of Lennon's masterpieces, also one of the greatest songs of all time, 'Imagine', perfectly portrays his thoughts of the world and life itself. The lyrics of the song describe a perfect world, without the factors that prevent people to live peacefully together. Factors like religion, money, and race have driven people away from peace for generations. Lennon personally asks the population to imagine such a world and to someday live as one. Millions of people around the globe are moved by such a song, considering Lennon a major inspiration through music.