John Lennon's Best Cover Songs: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Cover Songs in John Lennon's Career

John Lennon, a legendary figure in the music industry, is known for his iconic songs with The Beatles and his solo career. Interestingly, he also had a side project where he recorded a series of cover songs titled "Rock n Roll." This project was not just a musical endeavor but also served a legal purpose. In the tumultuous world of copyright and music rights, Lennon sought to compile a collection of cover songs that showcased his respect for original artists while potentially settling some legal issues regarding his claim of inspiration from other musicians' works.

Conflicts and Legal Battles

One of the major challenges Lennon faced was the concept of "stealing" when it came to borrowing from other artists' works. In particular, he noticed similarities in his songs to Chuck Berry's "Here Come Old Flattop," leading to a legal dispute. To address these concerns, Lennon recorded a collection of covers that he believed he had the right to perform as part of his "Rock n Roll" project. This initiative was also a personal tribute to artists who had greatly influenced him and the music landscape.

The Beatles and John’s Solo Covers

The Beatles: Twist and Shout (1963)

Lennon’s involvement with The Beatles was marked by iconic hits like "Twist and Shout," which was initially a cover itself but turned out to be a hit. The song's energetic nature and its influence on popular culture make it a standout addition to John’s discography.

Other Covers by The Beatles

Please Mister Postman (1964) - A Motown classic that Lennon and McCartney picked for its soulful appeal. Slow Down (1965) - An adaptation of a Wrecking Crew original, this song's smooth rhythm and melody showcase the band’s versatility. Dizzy Miss Lizzie (1967) - A name variant of the same song, originally by Sam Cooke, this quick and playful cover remains a fan favorite. Bad Boy (1968) - A cover of the Four Seasons classic, exemplifying the band's adherence to rock and roll. Leave My Kitten Alone (1969) - This sultry cover, first sung by Spencer Davis, shows Lennon's romantic and soulful side.

John's Solo Covers

Stand By Me (1971)

For his solo career, John Lennon chose to record a version of the great soul classic "Stand By Me." This choice was both a homage to Ben E. King's original and a way to navigate the complex issues of royalties and cover song royalties more effectively. His rendition brought new life to the song and cemented his status as a respected interpreter of soul and rock music.

Be-Bop a Lula (1972)

This cover of the rhythm and blues classic was particularly significant for Lennon. The song originally by the Exciters in 1958 became a staple of the early soul and rock and roll scene. Lennon’s soulful and insightful interpretation brought out the song's emotional depth and made it a hit on the charts, further establishing his credibility as a singer and performer.

Selected Covers from the "Rock and Roll" Album

Lennon's "Rock and Roll" album included several standout songs, each chosen because they represented his broad musical influences and his deep respect for other artists. The album itself is a testament to Lennon's musicality and his desire to highlight the work of various songwriters and performers.

Conclusion

John Lennon's cover songs, whether recorded with The Beatles or as a solo endeavor, represent a critical part of his artistic legacy. They offer a unique glimpse into his musical influences and his commitments to his craft. From the soulful to the rock and roll and beyond, Lennon's diverse selection demonstrates his respect for the classics and his contributions to the rich tapestry of popular music.