John Lennon, an iconic figure as a member of the Beatles and a celebrated solo artist, left an indelible mark on music history with timeless hits like “Imagine,” “Let It Be,” and “Strawberry Fields Forever.” Beyond his musical genius, Lennon’s legacy extends through his two sons, Julian and Sean Lennon, who have each carved their own paths while honoring their father’s memory. This article delves into the lives of John Lennon’s sons, exploring their relationships with their father, their musical journeys, and their individual identities.
Julian Charles John Lennon: The Elder Son
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Born Julian Charles John Lennon in Liverpool, England, on April 8, 1963, Julian is John Lennon’s son from his first marriage to Cynthia Lennon. Interestingly, in 2020, Julian chose to legally change his name to Julian Charles John Lennon, a decision he explained on the Word in Your Ear podcast was driven by years of travel and security-related hassles due to the constant recognition of “John Lennon” as his first name on documents. This change allowed him to navigate public life with less unwanted attention and humorous remarks associated with his famous father’s name.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Julian embarked on a successful music career. As a singer-songwriter and musician, he has released seven studio albums, showcasing his own musical talents. His 2022 album, Jude, is particularly noteworthy. The title itself is a direct reference to the Beatles’ iconic song “Hey Jude,” which Paul McCartney penned to comfort young Julian during his parents’ divorce in 1968. Jude became a deeply personal project for Julian, reflecting on his life experiences and journey towards inner peace. He described the album to PEOPLE as a process of “looking in the mirror deeply and trying to find that place of peace.”
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In a BBC Radio interview with his younger brother Sean, Julian shared poignant memories of his father, recalling one of their last conversations. He described a period when their relationship had strengthened, with frequent phone calls. Julian recounted listening to John Lennon’s final song, “Starting Over,” over the phone shortly before his death. He remembered his father being “extremely happy” and in a positive space, an emotional memory that stayed with him.
Beyond music, Julian has explored various creative avenues. He is a filmmaker, photographer, and author. In 2017, he ventured into children’s literature, releasing Touch the Earth, the first book in a trilogy aimed at raising eco-awareness among young readers. Through these books, Julian hopes to inspire children to appreciate the planet and consider the environmental challenges it faces, subtly echoing his father’s own advocacy for peace and a better world.
Sean Taro Ono Lennon: The Younger Son
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Sean Taro Ono Lennon, John Lennon’s son with Yoko Ono, was born on October 9, 1975, a particularly special date as it was also John Lennon’s 35th birthday. Growing up in New York City, Sean experienced a unique childhood, even having singer Roberta Flack as a neighbor. Their close relationship led to a lasting friendship, with Sean fondly referring to her as “Aunt Roberta.” He shared heartwarming anecdotes about their bond in the documentary Roberta, highlighting her influence on his early life, even before fully grasping her iconic status as a musician.
Like his father and older half-brother, Sean is a musically gifted artist. He has released four solo albums, collaborated with his mother Yoko Ono on five albums, and contributed to three albums with the band The Claypool Lennon Delirium. His talents extend to production as well, with credits including Lana Del Rey’s Lust For Life album in 2017.
Sean revealed to PEOPLE in November 2024 that music became a significant way for him to cope with the profound loss of his father. Learning to play John Lennon’s songs on guitar was a way to connect with his father’s memory and process his grief. He explained, “Making music always made me feel like I was getting to know him better.” This sentiment highlights the powerful role music plays in his life, both as a creative outlet and a means of honoring his father’s legacy.
Sean shares a close bond with his older brother Julian. Despite a 12-year age gap, they have cultivated a strong sibling relationship. In 2021, they attended a screening of The Beatles: Get Back together, an experience Julian initially hesitated about but ultimately cherished, thanks to Sean’s encouragement. Julian described Sean as his “best mate” and emphasized their deep brotherly love and daily communication.
In 2020, Sean curated a special BBC Radio show to commemorate what would have been his father’s 80th birthday. The show featured contributions from family and friends, including Paul McCartney and Elton John, offering intimate glimpses into John Lennon’s life and impact. During the show, Sean expressed the deep emotional connection he feels to his father’s music, particularly songs from the Double Fantasy era, which evoke powerful memories of the time before his father’s passing.
Sean has been in a long-term relationship with musician and model Charlotte Kemp Muhl since 2007. They met at Coachella in 2005 and have collaborated extensively on musical projects, most notably in their band The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger, showcasing their shared artistic vision and personal connection.
Conclusion
Julian and Sean Lennon, John Lennon’s sons, have each navigated life under the shadow of a legendary father while forging their own distinct identities. Both have embraced music, a powerful inheritance from their father, while also exploring other creative pursuits. Their individual journeys, marked by both personal and artistic achievements, stand as testaments to their resilience and their enduring connection to their father’s legacy. As they continue to evolve as artists and individuals, Julian and Sean Lennon ensure that the spirit and influence of John Lennon resonate through new generations.
