John Lennon, a name synonymous with musical innovation and profound songwriting, continues to inspire generations. His song “God,” from the album John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, stands out as a deeply personal and transformative work. This exploration delves into the creation of this iconic track, drawing insights from a special episode of the acclaimed podcast Song Exploder.
John Lennon featured in Song Exploder podcast episode discussing his song 'God'
In a unique posthumous episode, Song Exploder offered listeners an unprecedented glimpse into “God.” Utilizing a wealth of archival audio material provided by John Lennon’s estate, the episode meticulously pieces together the story behind the song. This special format, a first for the podcast, underscores the enduring impact of Lennon’s music and the dedication to preserving his artistic legacy.
The genesis of “God” is intrinsically linked to a pivotal moment in music history: John Lennon’s departure from The Beatles in September 1969. This seismic shift, publicly announced in April 1970, paved the way for Lennon’s raw and intensely personal solo work. John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, released in December 1970, became the vehicle for his artistic liberation, with “God” serving as a cornerstone of this new chapter. The Plastic Ono Band, a collective featuring Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono, was central to this album. For “God,” the lineup boasted musical heavyweights: Ringo Starr on drums, Billy Preston on piano, and Klaus Voormann on bass. Voormann himself contributed to the Song Exploder episode, sharing firsthand accounts of the recording process, alongside archival interviews with Lennon, Starr, and Preston.
Listeners of the Song Exploder episode are treated to a rich tapestry of audio elements, including the original demo of “God” and outtakes from the Abbey Road Studios sessions. These recordings offer a rare window into the song’s evolution and the collaborative energy in the studio. Notably, the final version of “God” was recorded on October 9, 1970—John Lennon’s 30th birthday—adding another layer of significance to this already profound song.
Archival materials incorporated into the episode include excerpts from a 1970 Rolling Stone interview with Jann S. Wenner, offering Lennon’s own perspective on his work. Quotes from Arthur Janov, associated with primal therapy which influenced Lennon, and Billy Preston from 2005 interviews further enrich the narrative. Ringo Starr’s insights are drawn from the “Classic Albums” documentary on John Lennon / Plastic Ono Band. These diverse sources converge to create a comprehensive and intimate portrait of the song’s creation.
“God” is more than just a Song For John Lennon; it’s a statement of personal truth, artistic independence, and a testament to his enduring influence. The Song Exploder episode serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the depth and complexity of this seminal work, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the mind of a musical legend.
