Full Breakdown
John Lennon’s Reflections on "Come Together" and His Solo Career
9/14/2025, 12:24:22 PM
The Legacy of "Come Together"
John Lennon, a member of The Beatles, described the song "Come Together," which serves as the opening track on the band's iconic album *Abbey Road*, as having a “funky” sound. In retrospective interviews, Lennon expressed pride in his work on the song, acknowledging its significance in The Beatles' catalog. He noted that while he considered George Harrison's "Something" to be the best track on the album, he still held "Come Together" in high regard. Lennon stated, “I think it’s pretty funky, y’know, I’m biased because it’s my song but I dig it.” This sentiment was echoed by The Beatles' producer, George Martin, who regarded "Come Together" as a prime example of the band's collaborative talent.
The Impact of Abbey Road
"Come Together" has been widely covered by various artists, including Joe Cocker and Michael Jackson, further solidifying its status in music history. Ringo Starr, The Beatles' drummer, also cited it as his favorite song from the band. The song's unique blend of musical elements showcases the individual talents of each member, with Lennon’s vocals, McCartney’s bass riff, Harrison’s guitar work, and Starr’s drumming coming together to create a distinctive sound.
Lennon’s Solo Career and Artistic Growth
In a later interview, Lennon reflected on his evolution as an artist post-Beatles, stating, “The fact is, The Beatles have left school… and we have to get a job. That’s made us work — really work harder. I think we’re much better than we ever were when we were together.” He expressed a preference for his solo work and that of his bandmates over their final Beatles albums, indicating a belief that their songwriting had matured after their breakup.
Recording Challenges with Rock 'n' Roll
Lennon’s solo career was not without its challenges. During the recording of his 1975 album *Rock 'n' Roll*, he faced tumultuous sessions characterized by disorganization and personal struggles. Larry Carlton, a session guitarist, recounted a particularly chaotic session where Lennon, under the influence of alcohol, struggled to maintain professionalism. Carlton described the experience as “a drag” and noted that the atmosphere was far from what he expected when working with a music icon.
Conflicting Reports on Recording Sessions
The production of *Rock 'n' Roll* was fraught with difficulties, including Phil Spector's erratic behavior and eventual disappearance with the master tapes. Lennon’s frustration was palpable, as he famously told Spector, “If you’re gonna shoot me, kill me, but don’t mess with my ears, Phil.” Ultimately, the album was completed without Carlton’s contributions, despite initial expectations.
Conclusion: Lennon’s Enduring Influence
John Lennon’s legacy continues to resonate through his music, both with The Beatles and as a solo artist. His reflections on "Come Together" and his subsequent work illustrate a journey of artistic growth and personal challenges. As Lennon’s influence endures, his songs remain a testament to his creativity and the collaborative spirit of The Beatles.
