The Musical Legacy of John Lennon Post-The Beatles: Albums and Collaborations
John Lennon, a founding member of The Beatles, is remembered not only for his iconic work with the Fab Four but also for his solo career, which saw him collaborate with numerous other artists. This article explores the number of albums Lennon released following his departure from The Beatles in 1970 and highlights some of his significant collaborations and solo works.
The Beatles and Their Final Album
John Lennon made it known in September 1969 that he planned to leave The Beatles. The band continued to work on their final studio album, Let It Be, until January 1970, predominantly recording just one track, "I Me Mine". This marked the end of The Beatles as a group, and no further studio albums were recorded. Let It Be was released in May 1970 as the only studio album released after John Lennon's departure.
John Lennon's Solo Career
After leaving The Beatles in 1970, Lennon embarked on a successful solo career, releasing eight albums between 1969 and 1980.
1969: Live Peace in Toronto (Plastic Ono Band)
The first of Lennon's post-Beatles albums was a live album that documented a one-off performance by the Plastic Ono Band. This recording includes six tracks led by Lennon, four covers including a version of "Cold Turkey", and two extended jams featuring Yoko Ono.
1970: Plastic Ono Band
This self-titled album showcased the raw and emotional side of Lennon's music. It featured a mix of Lennon's own compositions and several covers, including "Give Peace a Chance."
1971: Imagine
One of Lennon's most famous albums, Imagine, was released in 1971 and is remembered for its anti-war stance and cultural impact. The title track became an anthem for peace and unity, resonating with listeners around the world.
1971-1972: Some Time In New York City
As a double album, Some Time In New York City (1971) was an ambitious project. The first disc consists of lengthy live jams with various backing bands, and the second disc includes collaborations with the Mothers of Invention and an ill-fated all-star band, with George Harrison contributing his talents to the project.
1972: Mind Games
In 1973, Lennon released Mind Games, which is noted for its more polished sound and progression of his musical style, including the collaboration with the ill-used all-star band and George Harrison.
1973-1974: Walls and Bridges; Rock and Roll
In 1973, Lennon released Walls and Bridges, an album that explored political themes. In 1974, he released Rock and Roll, a compilation of cover songs that showcased his love for rock and roll music.
1975: Imagine (Remastered); Shaved Fish
Shaved Fish, a compilation album released in 1975, included hits like "Instant Karma, " "Cold Turkey, " and "Happy Xmas (War Is Over). " It also featured an edited version of the original "Give Peace a Chance" single.
1980: Double Fantasy
John Lennon's last album before his untimely death, Double Fantasy, was released in 1980. It featured a mix of his songs and those of Yoko Ono, capturing the emotional state of someone who had just returned from a life in exile. This album was released just weeks before his tragic murder.
Late Works and Posthumous Releases
John and Yoko also had plans for a follow-up to Double Fantasy in the form of Milk and Honey, which was left unfinished at the time of Lennon's death. The album never saw the light of day until 1994. In 1992, a live performance of Lennon and Yoko at Madison Square Garden was released as Live in New York.
John Lennon's post-Beatles work, particularly his solo albums, showcased his artistic range and the depth of his influence on popular music. Albums like Imagine and Double Fantasy continue to be celebrated for their cultural and musical significance.