Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Make a sustaining gift today to support local journalism!

Imagining the real John Lennon

John Lennon
(Photo by Pedro Netto via Flickr Creative Commons)
John Lennon

Today marks the 31st anniversary of the day that John Lennon was shot and killed on the sidewalk in front of his home in New York City. Reams of words have been written about that senseless, irrevocable act. But writer and critic Tim Riley prefers the parts of John Lennon’s story that are not so well known. 

In this special extended interview, I talk with Tim about some of the myths he debunks about John Lennon, including Yoko's role in the breakup of The Beatles, Lennon and McCartney's complicated relationship, and the surprising stories behind some of John Lennon's most recognizable songs. 

Producer's note:

This interview has been uploaded in two parts. /rl

LINKS:

The New York Times reviews Lennon

Riley's Rock Index

Related Content

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.