Sean Ono Lennon has worn many hats in his life: musician, producer, songwriter, and now, the keeper of his father’s legacy. When asked about his favorite part of making music, he simply stated, “I love writing and recording, and I hate finishing.”
With his mom, Yoko Ono, now in her 90s, Sean feels a deep responsibility to share his father’s impact. “I’m just doing my best to help the younger generation remember John and Yoko,” he shared. However, he expressed concern that forgetting could be possible, saying, “I do, actually. And I never did before.”
To keep his parents’ famous song, “Happy Xmas (War Is Over),” fresh in people’s minds, he teamed up with former Pixar animator Dave Mullins on a short film titled “War Is Over!” The film adds a new layer to the classic song by depicting two soldiers playing chess in a war setting. It won an Academy Award last year, a moment that made him emotional. He even took a moment during the win to wish his mom a happy Mother’s Day.
Lennon believes that the core of his parents’ legacy is about “peace and love” but adds that it also carries an attitude of activism infused with humor. This spirit shines through in the new HBO documentary, “One to One,” which highlights John and Yoko’s only concert together in 1972. At that time, John faced deportation from the U.S. largely due to his anti-war stance.
The documentary brings forth unreleased recordings of John and Yoko, made to counteract FBI surveillance. “It’s like getting more moments to spend with my dad,” Sean reflected. He has also produced accompanying music, and is working on a new album with his band, Claypool Lennon Delirium, which he describes as whimsical prog rock.
Sean and fellow musicians, including Paul McCartney’s son James and Ringo Starr’s son Zak, are collaborating on new songs but emphasize they are not out to recreate The Beatles’ legacy. “It has to be natural,” he insists.
Regarding Yoko, Sean says she is doing well, though aging has slowed her down. He feels the pressure to uphold the high standard she set for managing John’s music. He acknowledges the unique dynamic his parents shared, joking about how Yoko was probably the only person who would have turned down John as a writing partner, a sentiment that clearly brings him joy.
Sean Ono Lennon is committed to sharing his parents’ message and ensuring their music continues to resonate. As he puts it, “I think the Beatles’ music and John and Yoko’s legacy are important for the world to cherish.”
For more insights on the Beatles’ enduring influence, this report dives deeper into how their work still shapes culture today.
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Sean Ono Lennon, Beatles, Yoko Ono, John Lennon
