John Lennon, an icon of music history famed for his role in The Beatles and timeless anthems like “Imagine” and “Let It Be,” left behind a profound impact on the world. Beyond his musical genius, Lennon’s legacy extends through his two sons, Julian Lennon and Sean Taro Ono Lennon. These men, each unique in their paths, carry forward pieces of their father’s spirit while forging their own distinct identities in music and art. This article delves into the lives of John Lennon’s sons, exploring their relationships with their father, their artistic endeavors, and the enduring impact of being the sons of a legend.
Julian Charles John Lennon: Navigating a Legacy
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Born on April 8, 1963, in Liverpool, England, Julian Lennon, John Lennon’s elder son with his first wife Cynthia, has navigated a life intrinsically linked to his father’s monumental fame. Originally named John Charles Julian Lennon, he later legally changed his name to Julian Charles John Lennon in 2020, seeking to alleviate the constant association and security issues stemming from sharing his famous first and last names with his father. As Julian explained on the Word in Your Ear podcast, the name change was a practical decision to simplify travel and reduce unwanted attention.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Julian carved his own path in the music world. A successful musician in his own right, Julian has released seven studio albums, showcasing his songwriting and musical talents. His 2022 album, Jude, is particularly poignant, its title a direct reference to the iconic Beatles song “Hey Jude.” Famously written by Paul McCartney to comfort a young Julian during his parents’ divorce, the song became a symbol of a complex childhood under the shadow of Beatlemania. Julian described Jude as a reflective journey, a quest for inner peace and self-discovery, highlighting his artistic depth beyond his familial connections.
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In a touching BBC Radio interview with his younger brother Sean, Julian shared memories of his evolving relationship with his father, especially in the years leading up to John Lennon’s tragic death. He recounted a phone call where his father played him “Starting Over,” his final song, expressing happiness and contentment. This poignant memory offered Julian a sense of closure and a glimpse into his father’s peaceful state of mind during his final creative period.
Beyond music, Julian’s creativity extends to filmmaking, photography, and writing. In 2017, he ventured into children’s literature with Touch the Earth, the first book in a trilogy aimed at promoting eco-awareness among young readers. This project reflects Julian’s commitment to using his platform for positive change, subtly echoing his father’s own activism and message of peace and love. Julian’s children’s books serve as gentle reminders of the planet’s beauty and the importance of environmental responsibility, demonstrating his multifaceted artistic and humanitarian endeavors.
Sean Taro Ono Lennon: Carrying Forward a Musical Heritage
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Sean Taro Ono Lennon, John Lennon’s son with Yoko Ono, was born on October 9, 1975, sharing his birthday with his famous father. Growing up in New York City with Yoko Ono, Sean was immersed in an artistic environment from birth. His upbringing included an unexpected neighbor, the legendary singer Roberta Flack, who became a close family friend. Sean fondly remembers “Aunt Roberta,” emphasizing the normalcy of their neighborly relationship amidst extraordinary lives.
Like both his father and half-brother, Sean inherited a strong musical inclination. He has released four solo albums and collaborated extensively with his mother, Yoko Ono, on five albums, further cementing the “John And Yoko Son” connection in the public consciousness. Sean’s musical explorations extend beyond solo work; he is a member of the psychedelic rock band The Claypool Lennon Delirium and has production credits on notable albums, including Lana Del Rey’s Lust For Life.
In a 2024 interview, Sean revealed how music became a way to cope with the profound loss of his father. Learning to play John Lennon’s songs on guitar served as a method of processing grief and forging a deeper connection with his father’s artistic soul. Music became more than a career; it was a means of understanding and honoring his father’s enduring influence.
Sean also shares a close bond with his older half-brother, Julian. Despite a 12-year age difference, the brothers have cultivated a strong and supportive relationship. In 2021, they attended the screening of The Beatles: Get Back together, a significant moment of brotherly unity and shared history. Julian affectionately calls Sean his “best mate,” highlighting the depth of their fraternal affection and regular communication.
In 2020, Sean curated a special BBC Radio show to commemorate what would have been John Lennon’s 80th birthday. The show featured conversations with family and friends, including Paul McCartney and Elton John, celebrating John Lennon’s life and musical legacy. Sean’s emotional connection to his father’s music was evident as he spoke of the bittersweet emotions evoked by certain songs, particularly those from the Double Fantasy era, which vividly recall precious moments before his father’s passing. Sean’s long-term relationship with musician and model Charlotte Kemp Muhl, with whom he forms the band The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger, further exemplifies his deep immersion in the world of music and artistic collaboration.
Conclusion: Two Sons, A Shared Legacy
Julian and Sean Lennon, “john and yoko son,” each carry forward their father John Lennon’s legacy in unique and compelling ways. Julian, through his musical journey, photography, and literary works, explores themes of peace, reflection, and environmental consciousness. Sean, deeply involved in music and collaborations, honors his father’s memory through his artistic pursuits and by celebrating his father’s profound musical contributions. Both sons, while navigating the complexities of their lineage, have established themselves as accomplished artists, ensuring that the Lennon legacy continues to resonate through new generations. Their individual paths, intertwined with their father’s iconic shadow, showcase the enduring power of family, music, and artistic expression.
