John Lennon

Musical genius, supreme songwriter, social/political activist, and dedicated family man are just a few of the terms that describe the vast scope of John Lennon’s complex—yet rabidly appreciated—personality. Well beyond his work as a founding member of the Beatles, thought provoking pieces like “Give Peace a Chance,” “Instant Karma!,” “Imagine,” and “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” served to define yet another generation.

Alongside wife/collaborator Yoko Ono, the famed “Bed-In for Peace” during the Vietnam War turned their focus towards activism. After keeping a relatively low public profile, Lennon finally returned to music with 1980’s “Woman”-bearing Double Fantasy. A mere three weeks after this comeback collection was released, however, this agent of peace and love was inexplicably silenced forever—gunned down by a deranged fan outside his home.

Above and beyond his Songwriters Hall of Fame induction in 1987 and entering the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, Lennon’s music continues to influence an incalculable number of artists and fans from every generation.