John Lennon: Declassified (2007)

John Lennon's activism and outspokenness against the Vietnam War and other political issues during the 1960s and 1970s drew the attention of the FBI, particularly under the leadership of J. Edgar Hoover. Lennon's anti-war activities, involvement with left-wing groups, and popularity made him a target for surveillance by the Nixon administration.

The FBI's surveillance of Lennon primarily focused on monitoring his activities, associations, and travels. This included wiretaps, physical surveillance, and compiling extensive files on him and his acquaintances. The FBI was particularly concerned about Lennon's potential influence on public opinion, especially among young people.

The surveillance of Lennon became public knowledge through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and legal actions. In 1972, journalist Jon Wiener filed a FOIA request for Lennon's FBI files, which initiated a legal battle to obtain the documents. After years of litigation, Wiener finally succeeded in obtaining a significant portion of the FBI's Lennon files, revealing the extent of the government's surveillance of the former Beatle.

The FBI's surveillance of John Lennon underscores the agency's historical tendency to monitor and sometimes target individuals perceived as threats to the political status quo, regardless of their fame or influence.

 

Pattie Boyd Pictures

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.

 

 

How Did the Beatles Affect the World?

The Beatles had a profound and far-reaching impact on the world in numerous ways:

• Cultural Revolution: The Beatles were at the forefront of the cultural revolution of the 1960s, challenging traditional norms and values and embodying the spirit of youth rebellion, freedom, and self-expression. Their music, fashion, and attitudes helped to define the era and inspire social change.

• Globalization of Music: The Beatles played a key role in the globalization of popular music, introducing audiences around the world to the sound of rock and roll and influencing generations of musicians across a wide range of genres. Their global appeal helped to break down cultural barriers and bring people together through music.

• Impact on Popular Culture: The Beatles became cultural icons whose influence extended beyond music to encompass fashion, film, art, and literature. They inspired new trends in fashion and style, starred in groundbreaking films such as "A Hard Day's Night" and "Yellow Submarine," and served as muses for artists and writers around the world.

• Advocates for Peace and Social Change: The Beatles used their platform to advocate for peace, love, and social change. They spoke out against war, injustice, and inequality, and their music became anthems for the peace and civil rights movements of the 1960s. John Lennon's famous song "Imagine" continues to be a symbol of hope and unity for people around the world.

• Legacy and Inspiration: Even decades after their breakup, The Beatles continue to be celebrated and revered as one of the greatest bands in the history of popular music. Their songs remain timeless classics that are beloved by people of all ages and backgrounds, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless artists across the globe.

The Beatles' impact on the world was profound and enduring, shaping the course of popular culture and inspiring generations of musicians, artists, and activists around the world. Their music and message continue to resonate with audiences and serve as a reminder of the power of art to unite, inspire, and bring about positive change.

 

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.