God

John Lennon

About God

"God" is a song from John Lennon's first post-Beatles solo album, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band. The album was released on 11 December 1970 in the United States and the United Kingdom.


Year:
1988
4:08
87 
#2

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God is a concept
By which we measure
Our pain
I'll say it again
God is a concept
By which we measure
Our pain

I don't believe in magic
I don't believe in I-Ching
I don't believe in Bible
I don't believe in tarot
I don't believe in Hitler
I don't believe in Jesus
I don't believe in Kennedy
I don't believe in Buddha
I don't believe in mantra
I don't believe in Gita
I don't believe in yoga
I don't believe in kings
I don't believe in Elvis
I don't believe in Zimmerman
I don't believe in Beatles
I just believe in me
Yoko and me
And that's reality

The dream is over
What can I say?
The dream is over
Yesterday
I was the dream weaver
But now I'm reborn
I was the Walrus
But now I'm John
And so dear friends
You just have to carry on
The dream is over

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John Lennon

John Ono Lennon MBE, born John Winston Lennon (9 October 1940 – 8 December 1980) was an English musician, singer and songwriter who rose to worldwide fame as a founder, and member of the Beatles, one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed acts in the history of popular music. Together with Paul McCartney, he formed one of the most celebrated songwriting partnerships of the 20th century. Lennon left the Beatles at the end of the sixties soon after meeting Yoko Ono. He formed the Plastic Ono Band and continued a succesful solo career recording until 1975, when his second child Sean Lennon was born. In 1980, with the release of the LP "Double Fantasy," Lennon was once more in the publice eye. Lennon passed away after being shot b… more »

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Written by: John Winston Lennon

Lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Composition and Lyrics
"God" is a song from John Lennon’s first solo album, “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band,” released in 1970. Considered as one of his most controversial songs, Lennon lists many beliefs and idols including political figures, religious icons, and even Beatles, that he no longer believes in, ending the song with "I just believe in me...and Yoko."
Emotional Context
The song was written during a time when Lennon was undergoing Primal Therapy, a trauma-based psychotherapy, to deal with the deep-seated emotional issues that resulted from his early life experiences. Hence, the song also reflects the emotional pain and introspection he was experiencing during this time.
Beatle's Breakup
Towards the end of the song, John Lennon frankly tells his fans "I don't believe in Beatles," signifying that he has moved on from his past as part of the world-famous band and signifies the band's breakup.
Cultural Impact
The song’s controversial message, especially doubting the existence of God, had a significant impact on the culture of the 1970s. It was seen as Lennon's public declaration of his personal beliefs and an announcement of his ambitions as an independent artist.
Album Sessions
"God" was recorded at EMI Studios (now Abbey Road Studios) in London. According to studio outtake recordings, it took the musicians a few tries to get the rhythm and tempo just right.
The Making of the Song
In this song, Lennon performs on the piano with Klaus Voormann on bass and Billy Preston on the organ. Former Beatle Ringo Starr is on drums.
Music Influence
The stripped-down sound and personal lyrics of "God" heavily influenced the rock music of the 1970s and the rise of the singer-songwriter genre.
Cover Versions
Many musicians, including Bono from U2, have covered "God," showing its enduring influence across the decades.
Live Performances
Interestingly, despite its massive cultural impact, "God" was never performed live by Lennon.
Standalone Single Release
In 2007, "God" was released as a digital download on the iTunes music store. This marked the song's first official release as a standalone single.
Influence on Music Artists
The song has played a significant role in shaping modern music, influencing artists such as Elton John and Liam Gallagher who cited the album and the song as significant influences on their work.

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