John Lennon's Legacy Concerns Revealed by Paul McCartney



by NOUMAN RASOOL

John Lennon's Legacy Concerns Revealed by Paul McCartney
John Lennon's Legacy Concerns Revealed by Paul McCartney © William Vanderson/Fox Photos/GettyImages

In an intimate disclosure on his iHeart Radio podcast, McCartney: A Life in Lyrics, Paul McCartney revealed the vulnerabilities of the late John Lennon, reflecting on the Beatles legend's apprehensions about his posthumous reputation.

The conversation, which McCartney recounted with candor, highlighted Lennon's concerns about his lasting legacy. McCartney, at 81, expressed his astonishment at Lennon's self-doubt during one of their private conversations.

Lennon, famously known for his role in shaping the revolutionary sound of the Beatles, met a tragic end at the age of 40, a moment that still resonates with McCartney. "I remember him saying to me, 'Paul, I worry about how people are going to remember me when I die,'" McCartney shared, revealing his reassurance to Lennon, affirming the indelible mark he had made through his music.

Lennon-McCartney Synergy

McCartney, during the podcast episode titled "Here Today"—a nod to his 1982 tribute to Lennon—spoke about their synergistic collaboration. He mused over the effortless creativity that flowed when the two worked together, an experience he now cherishes in Lennon's absence.

Delving into the emotions surrounding Lennon's death, McCartney described the creation of "Here Today" as a poignant ode to their shared history. From their early days performing in cramped living rooms to their world-renowned success, the song served as McCartney's personal homage to Lennon's memory.

This reflective piece allowed McCartney a dialogue with Lennon beyond the grave, offering him a measure of comfort in his grief. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee has, on several occasions, publicly addressed the profound sorrow he faced following the assassination of his friend and fellow Beatle.

In a previous discussion on SiriusXM's The Beatles Channel in 2022, McCartney touched upon the raw emotion he felt upon returning home after Lennon's death was announced. He grappled with the challenge of condensing his feelings into words, instead choosing to let "Here Today" carry the weight of his sentiment.

The enduring influence of Lennon's character, his boldness, and his unique contributions to music and culture remain a topic of reverence and curiosity, as McCartney continues to keep the memory of his friend's talent and spirit alive through his music and stories.

John Lennon Paul Mccartney