Another sad anniversary is marked today, which needs no explanation. It is hard to believe that twenty-nine years have passed since a very senseless act triggered a shockwave of grief and outrage that stretched around the globe.
It seemed surreal hearing the radio report that morning as I was getting ready for school. Lennon’s voice was as familiar to me as that of a family member. I remember playing the "Starting Over" single, which I had bought just a couple of weeks prior (and still have) before heading out in the cold to catch the bus.
At twelve, the generational impact wasn’t a factor in my reaction, though I do recall staring at the gatefold picture of Sgt. Pepper later that evening and thinking how strange it was that the smiling, bespectacled guy in that photo was gone.
In a kinder universe, the Beatles Anthology project would have ended with an absolutely mind blowing Unplugged set.
Imagine that.
5 comments:
Oh my... that video you posted really left me emotional... Seeing the great Lennon perform was just amazing !
It was the saddest day in rock history.
I was only 4 when Lennon was taken from us. I have no real memories of where I was nor what I was doing.
Because their deaths were so close together and because they both gave so much back to the world I often also remember Harry Chapin when I think of Lennon. They were both exceptional songwriters and neither of them were merely content to talk the talk, they also walked the walk. While I might not always agree with their politics, I can't help but respect people who were willing to use their influence and put themselves out there to make a difference in the world.
It's been awhile since I've gone, but I used to love going to Strawberry Fields in Central Park on this anniversary. There is always a great turnout, and the atmosphere is amazing with everyone singing his classics. Especially on the 25th anniversary, it was quite moving.
His work was exceptional when he was really switched on. I have always enjoyed his rock oriented stuff, especially when he covered the material that inspired him to play (Berry, Holly,etc.)
I understand that he touched many lives with his music, but I don't think that he would have gone for the overly saccharine tributes that have been served up over the years since he was killed.
I have heard great things about the acoustic jam sessions that take place in Central Park every year when Dec 8th rolls around.
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