Who knew that a lyrical and musical masterpiece would make such an impact all over the world?
Championed as the international song of peace, John Lennon's "Imagine" has captured listeners all over world since it was released in 1971. With our world always changing right before us, and with the seeming constant flow of threats against peace, I have seen this song bring together scores of people who otherwise would not have been united.
In 1972, John Lennon and wife Yoko Ono performed the song in Madison Square Garden. The performance was a live benefit for the students of the Willowbrook School in New York, a school for the mentally disabled. There, the students experienced deplorable conditions and different forms of abuse.
Lennon also thought this performance would have a positive impact on his career after the disappointing sales of Some Time in New York City and the fact that President Nixon was trying to deport him.
Regardless of the reason for the concert, there is very little argument against the powerful impact of this song. It is as powerful today as it was in the 1970s. And Lennon really drives home the message of love by kissing Yoko at the end of the performance!
If watching this performance of "Imagine" gave some peace, please SHARE!
