Julian Lennon, son of iconic Beatles singer John Lennon, breaks a long-held promise as he performs his father’s legendary song “Imagine” for a powerful cause. After years of vowing to only sing the song in dire circumstances, Julian’s change of heart came as he lent his voice to the Global Citizen’s Stand Up for Ukraine campaign.
The timeless ballad “Imagine” originated from The Beatles’ 1971 album of the same name, with much of its content inspired by John Lennon’s wife, Yoko Ono. The song envisions a world free from borders, religious divisions, materialism, and filled with harmony.
Though he had sworn off performing “Imagine,” Julian chose to make an exception for a noble cause. The moving video of his performance bears heartfelt notes explaining his decision: “…the War on Ukraine is an unimaginable tragedy. As a human, and as an artist, I felt compelled to respond in the most significant way I could.”
Joined by guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, Julian’s rendition of “Imagine” stands as a poignant reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire change.