John Lennon & Yoko Ono on The Eamonn Andrews Show (April 3, 1969)

John Lennon and Yoko Ono's appearance on The Eamonn Andrews Show on April 3, 1969, was a notable television moment marked by both tension and wit. Hosted at the Café Royal restaurant in London and broadcast live by Thames Television, the show featured an eclectic mix of guests including singer Rolf Harrison, comedian Jack Benny, violinist Yehudi Menuhin, and singer Gaynor Jones.

The atmosphere was charged with curiosity and criticism regarding Lennon and Ono's unconventional peace activism, particularly their recent "bed-in" protest. Jack Benny's humorous quip about not wanting to get involved in the controversy set the tone for a lively exchange. Yehudi Menuhin added a touch of irony by pointing out the absence of Jesus's commentary on staying in bed in the New Testament.

The interview itself was confrontational, with Lennon and Ono defending their actions against audience hostility. Lennon emphasized their commitment to peace and their use of media attention to promote activism. However, audience members expressed skepticism and disapproval, accusing Lennon of being out of touch with reality and criticizing his influence on youth.

Despite the tension, Lennon and Ono maintained their composure, engaging in witty banter with the audience. Lennon's playful comparison of acorns to symbols of growth elicited both laughter and further criticism. The exchange encapsulated the complexity of public perception surrounding Lennon and Ono's activism, showcasing their resilience in the face of adversity.

 

24 Hours: The World of John and Yoko (December 1969)

24 Hours: The World Of John And Yoko offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of John Lennon and Yoko Ono during a five-day period, captured by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). Filmed at their estate, Tittenhurst Park in Ascot, Berkshire, the documentary provides extensive access to the couple's daily activities and thoughts.

The filming coincided with Lennon and Ono's participation in another documentary titled Man Of The Decade for rival broadcaster ATV. Remarkably, the BBC crew also captured behind-the-scenes moments of this concurrent project, showcasing a unique perspective on the filming process.

Desmond Morris, who selected Lennon for the ATV documentary, is seen walking with the couple around the estate, engaging in conversation and posing thought-provoking questions. Candid moments unfold as Lennon and Ono share their views on politics in the comfort of their mansion's kitchen.

The documentary unfolds over the course of five days, culminating in a 35-minute portrayal of Lennon and Ono's world. First aired on BBC 1 on December 15, 1969, 24 Hours offers viewers an immersive experience into the lives of two iconic figures of the era. Selected excerpts from the documentary later found their way into the 1988 production Imagine: John Lennon, further cementing its significance in documenting Lennon and Ono's legacy.

 

 

John Lennon & Yoko Ono on CBC Weekend (December 20, 1969)

Hosted by Lloyd Robertson, the show delved into the couple's efforts to promote peace, particularly in the context of their recent encounter with Marshall McLuhan at the University of Toronto.

Lennon introduced the episode as "Peace Weekend," setting the tone for a discussion centered around their peace campaign. Joining them on the show was Rabbi Abhraham Feinberg, who had participated in the chorus of "Give Peace A Chance."

Broadcasting live from the CBC Studio in Toronto, the interview touched on various aspects of Lennon and Ono's activism. A notable moment occurred when legislator Russell Doern, linked up from Winnipeg, read a letter from Manitoba's premier inviting Lennon and Ono to promote peace in the province. Lennon's enthusiastic response showcased his genuine commitment to the cause.

During the interview, Lennon explained his choice of Canada for their peace campaign, expressing a desire to avoid being labeled as "Mr. and Mrs. Dead Saint of 1970." Rabbi Feinberg echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the campaign's aim to transcend political boundaries and resonate with people on a grassroots level.

Despite some skepticism, particularly regarding the effectiveness of their efforts, Lennon and Ono remained steadfast in their belief that their campaign had value in fostering dialogue and spreading the message of peace.

John Lennon & George Harrison In Concert at the Lyceum Ballroom, London (December 15, 1969)

The Plastic Ono Band's live performance at the Lyceum Ballroom in London on Monday, December 15, 1969, was a momentous event that pushed boundaries and challenged expectations. The concert was part of a benefit event for the charity UNICEF, titled "Peace For Christmas," and featured an eclectic lineup of acts including the Young Rascals, Desmond Dekker and the Aces, Blue Mink, and Black Velvet, among others.

This particular performance by the Plastic Ono Band, however, stood out as a historic moment in music history. With just 48 hours' notice, the lineup for the Plastic Ono Band's debut European concert included an impressive array of talent: John Lennon, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Klaus Voormann, Alan White, Billy Preston, Bobby Keys, Jim Price, and others.

The stage was set for an unforgettable night as Lennon, Harrison, Clapton, and the rest of the band took to the stage amidst a backdrop declaring "War Is Over." The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the audience eagerly awaited what would unfold.

The performance itself was a revelation, with the band launching into a set that included the current single "Cold Turkey" and its B-side, "Don't Worry Kyoko (Mummy's Only Looking For Her Hand In The Snow)." "Cold Turkey" kicked off the set with raw intensity, showcasing Lennon's powerful vocals and the band's tight instrumentation.

However, it was the performance of "Don't Worry Kyoko" that truly captivated the audience. Clocking in at around 40 minutes, the song stretched the boundaries of conventional rock music, with Ono's primal wails soaring over the band's hypnotic grooves. The performance was described as "the most fantastic music" by Lennon himself, pushing the boundaries of what was expected from a live concert.

While some audience members may have been taken aback by the unconventional nature of the performance, those who stayed were treated to an immersive and transformative experience. As drummer Alan White recalled, the performance reached a frenetic climax as the band played faster and faster until they could go on no more.

In hindsight, the concert at the Lyceum Ballroom remains a landmark moment in music history, showcasing the innovative spirit and boundary-pushing ethos of the Plastic Ono Band. It was a night that defied expectations, challenged conventions, and left a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to witness it.

 

John Lennon on the Death Penalty in Britain (December 15, 1969)

In 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono became deeply involved in the case of James Hanratty, a convicted murderer who had been executed seven years prior for a notorious crime in Britain. The case involved the rape of Valerie Storie and the murder of Michael John Gregsten on the A6 highway in Bedfordshire in 1961. Despite Hanratty's execution, doubts persisted about his guilt, with many suspecting another individual, Peter Alphon, as the likely perpetrator.

The trial, marked by extensive media coverage and public interest, resulted in Hanratty's conviction, although the evidence against him was somewhat circumstantial. His family continued to advocate for his innocence, and in late 1969, they met with John Lennon and Yoko Ono through a mutual acquaintance, John Cunningham. Lennon and Ono, in their characteristic style of activism, announced plans to make a film supporting Hanratty's case, aligning it with their broader protest against capital punishment.

The film, titled Did Britain Murder Hanratty?, was released by Apple Films, although Lennon's exact involvement remains unclear. Despite this, the film became associated with Lennon, and its only public screening occurred in 1972. The case sparked discussions about capital punishment and the fairness of the legal system, especially considering Hanratty's criminal record and the later DNA tests that seemingly confirmed his guilt.

 

George Harrison at Beat '70, Falkoner Theatre, Copenhagen, Denmark (December 10, 1969)

On Wednesday, December 10, 1969, George Harrison made a surprise appearance during two concerts by the American musical duo Delaney & Bonnie at the Falkoner Theatre in Copenhagen, Denmark.

This marked a significant moment as it was Harrison's first stage appearance since The Beatles' final concert in August 1966. Having joined Delaney & Bonnie's UK tour earlier in Bristol on December 2, 1969, Harrison's presence added a layer of excitement and anticipation to the evening's performances.

The concerts, held at 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. CET, were not only memorable for Harrison's participation but also for being videotaped for broadcast on DR-TV's Beat '70: "The Original Delaney & Bonnie & Friends." This recording ensured that fans around the world could experience the magic of these historic performances.

 

John Lennon: Man of the Decade (December 2, 1969)

Man Of The Decade presents an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the life and impact of John Lennon, one of three nominees for the prestigious title. Commissioned by Associated TeleVision (ATV), the documentary features segments dedicated to each nominee, with Lennon's segment culminating the program.

Anthropologist Desmond Morris, Lennon's nominator, offers a compelling perspective on the musician's influence, accompanied by carefully selected archival footage and newsreels that trace Lennon's journey from his early days with The Beatles to his more recent endeavors with Yoko Ono.

The segment delves into Lennon's unconventional approach to education, his views on success and mainstream values, and his optimistic outlook on the future. Lennon reflects on the transformative power of music, from the early days of rock 'n' roll to the psychedelic era and beyond.

Throughout the interview, Lennon candidly discusses his experiences with drugs and meditation, portraying them as coping mechanisms in the face of life's pressures. He also emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships, particularly his bond with Yoko Ono, as a pathway to achieving harmony in the world.

As the interview concludes, Lennon offers a glimpse into his vision for the future, expressing excitement for the possibilities ahead and reassuring viewers, including the skeptics, that the coming decade holds promise and potential for positive change.

The documentary provides a multifaceted portrait of Lennon's life and legacy, offering viewers a deeper understanding of his beliefs, values, and aspirations. It serves as a testament to Lennon's enduring impact as a cultural icon and a champion of peace and love.

 

Paul McCartney On His Scottish Farm in High Park, Campbeltown (October 24, 1969)

In the midst of a swirling storm of rumors and speculation, Paul McCartney found himself at the center of an extraordinary media frenzy. The infamous "Paul is Dead" myth, which had been spreading like wildfire across continents, had reached a fever pitch, prompting McCartney to take action.

Retreating to his Scottish farm in Campbeltown, McCartney decided to confront the rumors head-on. On this fateful day, he agreed to an interview with the BBC's Chris Drake, providing a rare glimpse into his secluded life amidst the chaos.

With steadfast determination, McCartney addressed the allegations with a calm resolve, denying emphatically the absurd notion of his demise. Drawing inspiration from Mark Twain, he quipped, "Rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated," in an effort to dispel the growing hysteria.

Joined by his wife Linda, McCartney expressed frustration at the relentless media scrutiny, lamenting the intrusion on their peaceful holiday. Despite their protestations, the press persisted in perpetuating the outlandish claims, forcing McCartney to assert his vitality unequivocally.

Amidst discussions about his rustic Scottish abode and his desire for privacy, McCartney offered insights into his evolving priorities, emphasizing his newfound joy in family life over the relentless pursuit of fame. With candor and sincerity, he hinted at a desire to retreat further from the public eye, suggesting that The Beatles had no immediate plans for a reunion and hinting at a prolonged absence from London until the dawn of the new decade.

 

John Lennon and Yoko Ono Demonstrate "Howling" (September 15, 1969)

On Monday, September 15, 1969, at the iconic Apple Corps headquarters in London, England, ITV News correspondent Keith Hatfield had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with Lennon and Ono, who discussed the genesis of "howling."With the dissolution of the Beatles looming and rumors swirling about potential solo projects, Lennon hinted at his willingness to explore new avenues of creativity.

This footage originally aired on Tuesday, September 16, 1969, and within four days Lennon would announce his departure from the Beatles at an Apple meeting with the group.

 

John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band: Sweet Toronto (September 13, 1969)

On the night of Saturday, September 13, 1969, the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival Festival erupted in a whirlwind of music, mayhem, and unexpected moments. For John Lennon, it began with a sense of reluctance, a nagging regret at having agreed to take the stage at all. But as fate would have it, Lennon found himself swept up in a whirlwind of events, propelled forward by the irrepressible energy of his bandmates and the allure of rock 'n' roll.

As the hastily assembled Plastic Ono Band – featuring Lennon, Eric Clapton, Klaus Voormann, and Alan White – boarded a plane bound for Canada, the air crackled with anticipation. Amidst the hum of engines and the chatter of passengers, the group hastily rehearsed a medley of rock 'n' roll standards, their impromptu jam sessions setting the stage for what was to come.

Arriving at the Varsity Stadium of Toronto University, the band found themselves thrust into a festival atmosphere unlike any other. With 20,000 eager ticket holders unaware of their impending performance, the element of surprise hung thick in the air, adding to the electric atmosphere of the night.

As midnight approached, the Plastic Ono Band's black limousine swept into the backstage area, accompanied by a roaring procession of 80 motorcycles. Amidst a flurry of excitement and flashing cameras, Lennon and his bandmates retreated to the dressing room, nerves and anticipation mingling in equal measure.

But when the moment finally arrived, all doubts melted away in the blaze of lights and the roar of the crowd. Led by Lennon's raw vocals and Clapton's blistering guitar solos, the band tore through a setlist that spanned the spectrum of rock 'n' roll, from the infectious rhythm of 'Blue Suede Shoes' to the raw intensity of 'Cold Turkey'.

Yet, amidst the frenzy of performance, Lennon's candor shone through. Admitting his struggles with addiction and his inability to recall lyrics, he improvised words on stage, weaving a tapestry of spontaneity and emotion that captivated the audience.

The Beatles Attending a Bob Dylan Concert at the Isle of Wight Festival (August 31, 1969)

On the evening of Sunday, August 31, 1969, the Isle of Wight Festival pulsed with anticipation as music legends converged for a historic event. Among the throngs of eager spectators were none other than three-quarters of The Beatles – John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr – accompanied by their wives, Yoko Ono, Pattie Harrison, and Maureen Starkey.

The festival's main attraction? None other than the enigmatic Bob Dylan, making his triumphant return to the stage after a three-year hiatus. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Dylan and his band took to the stage, their music igniting the night with a fiery energy that reverberated through the hearts of the 150,000-strong audience.

Amidst the sea of faces, familiar figures could be spotted – Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Eric Clapton, and more, all drawn by the magnetic pull of Dylan's legendary performance. For Lennon, Harrison, and Starr, the evening held a special significance, a chance to witness one of their musical heroes in action.

Yet, as the night wore on, anticipation gave way to a sense of restless energy. The late hour weighed heavily on the crowd, and even the promise of a potential Beatles-Dylan jam seemed to hang in the balance. Despite their eagerness, the opportunity never materialized, leaving a sense of unfulfilled possibility lingering in the air.

After the final chord had faded into the night, the three Beatles found themselves at Dylan's rented farmhouse, where they shared in the camaraderie of music and friendship. Amidst laughter and revelry, they presented Dylan with a pre-release copy of Abbey Road, a gesture of respect and admiration between musical titans.

As the night stretched into the early hours, the farmhouse echoed with the strains of Abbey Road, a testament to the enduring bond shared between artists who had shaped the very fabric of rock 'n' roll. And in that moment, amidst the glow of friendship and music, the spirit of collaboration thrived, transcending the boundaries of fame and fortune.

The Beatles’ Last Photoshoot - Tittenhurst Park (August 22, 1969)

August 22, 1969, marked a bittersweet milestone in the annals of music history – The Beatles' final photo shoot. Gathered together for one last time in the tranquil environs of Tittenhurst Park, the band embarked on a poignant journey through lens and light.

Nestled amidst the verdant grounds of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Sunninghill estate, this historic session captured the essence of an era drawing to a close. Against the backdrop of Tittenhurst's sprawling acres, Ethan Russell and Monte Fresco wielded their cameras, immortalizing the band in a series of iconic shots.

Amidst the click of shutters and the whisper of leaves, John, Paul, George, and Ringo stood united, their bond palpable even as the shadows of change loomed large. Joined by Yoko Ono and a radiant, heavily pregnant Linda McCartney, the group painted a portrait of camaraderie and resilience in the face of an uncertain future.

From the grandeur of the main house to the quiet serenity of the garden path, each frame captured a moment suspended in time – a testament to the enduring legacy of The Beatles. Wide-brimmed hats adorned Lennon and Harrison, adding a touch of whimsy to the solemnity of the occasion.

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, the shutter ceased its rhythmic dance, and the final clicks echoed through the hallowed halls of Tittenhurst. Yet, in those fleeting moments frozen in emulsion, The Beatles' spirit lived on – a timeless reminder of the power of music to transcend the confines of space and time.

Though the day may have ended, the memories captured on film would endure, a lasting testament to the indelible mark left by four young men from Liverpool who dared to dream beyond the confines of their era. And as the final rays of sunlight bathed Tittenhurst Park in a golden glow, The Beatles bid farewell to an era, leaving behind a legacy that would resonate for generations to come.

 

George Harrison Signing Autographs at His Home in Kinfauns, Esher, England (August 4, 1969)

In this rare footage, witness the quiet charm of the "Quiet Beatle" as he graciously interacts with Pat Kinzer Mancuso, President of the George Harrison Fan Club.

As the camera captures the scene, George, ever the embodiment of humility, takes time out of his day to connect with fans who have journeyed from afar to meet their idol. Pat, who had fostered a deep connection with George through her role in the fan club, stands in awe alongside her friends as they come face to face with the man behind the music.

In a moment filled with nervous anticipation, George breaks the ice with his trademark wit, paving the way for a memorable exchange. Despite his own apparent stresses, George's genuine warmth shines through as he engages with Pat and her companions, signing autographs and even lending a creative hand in designing a special birthday card for fellow fan club members.

Through the lens of history, this poignant encounter captures the essence of George Harrison – a musician, a friend, and a beacon of kindness in a world captivated by Beatlemania. Join us as we journey back to a time when music transcended fame, and a simple act of generosity left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to experience it firsthand.

 

The Beatles Arriving at EMI Studios, London (July 23, 1969)

At Abbey Road Studios on Wednesday, July 23, 1969,  musical history was being meticulously crafted. Under the guiding hand of producer George Martin and the technical expertise of engineers Geoff Emerick and Phil McDonald, The Beatles embarked on a day of intensive recording in Studio Three.

The spotlight fell on Paul McCartney as he stepped up to the microphone to lay down the long-awaited lead vocals for 'Oh! Darling'. After weeks of early morning sessions, McCartney's quest for the perfect take reached its climax as he poured his soul into each note, striving to capture the raw emotion of the song.

With 'Oh! Darling' finally in the can, attention turned to 'Come Together', as additional vocal layers were delicately woven into the tapestry of sound. But it was the epic finale, known then as 'Ending', that truly stole the show. The Beatles, in their trademark collaborative spirit, rehearsed tirelessly before laying down seven takes of the backing track, each a testament to their musical prowess.

As the day drew to a close, the control room of Studio Two buzzed with anticipation as an hour-long playback of the day's recordings unfolded. From the raw intensity of 'Oh! Darling' to the intricate layers of 'Ending', the playback offered a glimpse into the creative journey of one of the greatest bands the world had ever known.

In Studio Three, amidst the flicker of tape reels and the hum of amplifiers, The Beatles forged ahead, each chord and lyric immortalized in the annals of music history. And as the sun set on Abbey Road, the echoes of their genius reverberated through the corridors, a testament to the enduring legacy of a band that dared to dream beyond the confines of convention.

 

The David Frost Show (June 14, 1969)

On Saturday, June 14th, 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono made a memorable appearance on The David Frost Show. The couple, known for their activism and avant-garde approach to art, took the opportunity to share their message of peace and challenge societal norms.

Recorded at the InterTel studios in Wembley, London, the episode featured Lennon and Ono engaging in their trademark eccentricity. As the show began, acorns were playfully tossed into the audience, marking the start of "acorns for peace week." Lennon, ever the provocateur, held up their album Unfinished Music No 2: Life With The Lions and extended birthday wishes to the Queen.

The conversation delved into their experimental music, with Frost humorously discussing the controversial cover of Two Virgins and its black market value. Lennon and Ono also touched on their artistic philosophy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all creative forms and the concept of "Bagism."

Bagism, they explained, was a metaphor for societal divisions and prejudices, encapsulated in the idea of being "in a bag." By getting "in the bag," they argued, one could experience a peaceful detachment from societal norms and biases.

Their advocacy for peace extended beyond philosophical discussions. Lennon passionately advocated for peace as a commodity, urging people to "sell peace" like any other product. Through their famous "bed-ins" and other acts of activism, Lennon and Ono sought to disrupt the status quo and promote a world free from violence and discrimination.

The interview with Frost was not just a showcase of their music or ideas but a snapshot of a transformative era. Lennon and Ono's willingness to challenge conventions and use their platform for social change left a lasting impression on viewers, echoing their timeless message of love and peace.

 

Will The Real Mr. Sellers Please Stand Up (1969)

This rarely seen 1969 documentary offers a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of the making of The Magic Christian, featuring exclusive interviews with the iconic Peter Sellers. Narrated by Spike Milligan, the film delves into Sellers' complex persona, with candid appearances from notable figures such as Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Linda McCartney, and John Lennon.

Despite its intriguing content, the documentary was never rebroadcasted by the BBC, purportedly because Sellers felt it portrayed him in a depressed light. Milligan provides insightful commentary, dissecting Sellers' character amidst the production chaos.

Viewers should be prepared for strong imagery, including scenes of a bullfight, open-heart surgery, and nudity. Despite any perceived melancholy, Sellers continued his illustrious career for 11 more years after this documentary's release.

Tragically, Sellers passed away on July 24, 1980, succumbing to a massive heart attack at the Dorchester Hotel in London, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences.

 

The Two Junkies Interview: John Lennon & Yoko Ono on Heroin (January 14, 1969)

In this candid and infamous January 14, 1969 interview, John Lennon and Yoko Ono sit down with a reporter from Canada's CBC-TV. As the camera rolls, Lennon's demeanor shifts noticeably, his pallor growing as he becomes increasingly restless—a telltale sign of his heroin use. Midway through, Lennon abruptly excuses himself, citing feeling unwell, prompting a brief pause in filming.

Returning with a renewed energy, the latter half of the interview sees Lennon engaging in animated discussions about live performances, sources of inspiration, and the couple's ambitious future plans. Despite the initial turbulence, the interview offers a raw glimpse into Lennon and Ono's world, capturing the complexities of their relationship amidst the backdrop of their artistic journey.

 

John Lennon & Yoko Ono interview with Marshall McLuhan in Toronto (December 21, 1969)

On December 19th, 1969, when three iconic figures of the 20th century converged in snowy Toronto for an extraordinary meeting of minds. John Lennon and Yoko Ono, champions of peace and avant-garde expression, found themselves in conversation with none other than Marshall McLuhan, the renowned Canadian media theorist and author.

Organized by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, this inspired pairing brought together Lennon and Ono, fresh from their "War is Over" billboard and poster campaign, with McLuhan, whose groundbreaking works like "Understanding Media" had already left an indelible mark on global intellectual discourse.

In a captivating exchange captured on film, Lennon, Ono, and McLuhan delve into the genesis of their peace-promoting campaign, revealing the creative process behind its inception and the challenges of spreading its message worldwide. From the power of posters as a medium of expression to the complexities of organizing a global initiative, the conversation offers a rare glimpse into the minds of these influential figures.

 

The Drug Bust - George Harrison and Pattie Boyd (March 18, 1969)

On the fateful evening of March 12, 1969, the tranquil sanctuary of Kinfauns, the home of George and Pattie Harrison, was shattered by the intrusion of the drug squad.

In a dramatic turn of events, Sgt. Pilcher, the head of the raid, planted drugs in George's shoe, leading to the swift arrest of the Harrisons. Despite the shock and disbelief, George and Pattie were promptly booked and released on bail, marking the beginning of a legal ordeal that would test their resolve.

Amidst the chaos, the Harrisons defiantly returned home, refusing to be cowed by the authorities' heavy-handed tactics. That very night, they bravely attended a Pisces party, accompanied by Pattie's sister, Paula Boyd. In an audacious act of rebellion, Paula offered Princess Margaret, a member of the British royal family, a joint, symbolizing the countercultural spirit of the era.

Just six days after their arrest in a drug bust, the couple found themselves in the solemn halls of Walton Magistrates’ Court. Charged with cannabis possession, Apple's press officer, Derek Taylor, provided surety and the couple were released as they awaited their trial. George and Pattie were each fined £250, along with an additional 10 guineas each in costs.

John and Yoko in Canada

By Ritchie Yorke/February 7, 1969

TORONTO. Police were on duty along the corridors to hold back fans and to scrutinize the credentials of the fifty or so press representatives who turned up either to gaze in wonder at the most famous couple in the world, or to dismiss the visit as more weird stuff from the weirdest family around. It was the beginning of John and Yoko's second bed-in for peace and after their unexpected arrival, they had quickly called a press conference. Inside a crowded hotel suite, they sat peacefully holding hands, surrounded by pink and white carnations, record players, film equipment and busy phones.

"We're trying to interest young people in doing something for peace," Lennon said, toying with a white carnation. "But it must be done by nonviolent means - otherwise there can be only chaos. We're saying to the young people - and they have always been the hippest ones - we're telling them to get the message across to the squares."

What about talking to the people who make the decisions, the power brokers? suggested a cynical reporter. Lennon laughed. "Shit, talk? Talk about what? It doesn't happen like that. In the U.S., the government is too busy talking about how to keep me out. If I'm a joke, as they say, why don't they just let me in?"

Asked if there may be a better way to promote peace than to lie in bed for seven days, Yoko said: "We worked for three months thinking out the most functional approach to boosting peace before we got married and spent our honeymoon talking to the press in bed in Amsterdam. For us it was the only way. We can't lead a parade or a march because of all the autograph hunters."

"We're all responsible for war," Lennon continued. "We all must do something, no matter what - by growing our hair long, standing on one leg, talking to the press, having bed-ins - to change the attitudes. The people must be made aware that it's up to them.

"Bed-ins are something that everybody can do and they're so simple. We're willing to be the world's clowns to make people realize it."

The next day they bedded down again - this time in Montreal, where Lennon devoted a good portion of his time talking with AM and FM stations all around the United States and Canada from his hotel-room phone. He happily counseled peace to KSAN-FM's San Francisco Bay Area listeners. The following day - the day of the big People's Park march in Berkeley - Lennon phoned KPFA-FM in Berkeley twice to inquire how it was going and to advise the demonstrators to use peaceful methods.

"When I first got the news it stooned me, absolutely stooned me," he told the KPFA listeners, and assured them that people around the world were on the side of People's Park.

"But you can't do it with violent means. That won't accomplish anything. Keep it peaceful. Violence is what has kept mankind from getting together for centuries."