Of course, John Lennon is known most for being one of the Beatles, but his iconic peace songs were produced during his solo career or with the Plastic Ono Band.
“Imagine” has become an anthem for the hope of a world without destructive divisions. It has become more than a song; it is an evocation of yearning for what could be.
Here Lennon performs “Imagine” in a live concert:
One powerful example of the global impact of “Imagine” was the John Lennon Wall during the Occupy movement in Hong Kong. Chinese governmental control over the selection of Hong Kong’s governors sparked a massive protest that lasted over a month. First the Central financial district was occupied by protesters and then the movement took over two other major centers in Hong Kong and Kowloon. People camped, held public meetings, created art, and expressed their hopes.
Playing for Change did a version of the song drawing upon the talents of musicians from around the world. Lennon’s earlier “Give Peace a Chance” hasn’t been sung as much but the chorus has become a frequent chant in demonstrations: “All we are saying….” The song was first performed as part of the “Bed In” for peace that he did with Yoko Ono in 1969.