God (John Lennon song)
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"God" is a song from John Lennon's first post-Beatles solo album, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band. The album was released on December 11, 1970 in the U.S. and the U.K.
This song was very controversial upon its release, dealing with religious themes, atheism, and harsh feelings towards the Beatles.
It featured Ringo Starr on drums and Billy Preston on piano.
[edit] Lyrics and meaning
The first movement of the song discusses Lennon's disdain for religious belief. He believed that God was something different to everyone[citation needed], and that most people did not focus enough on the moral lessons of religion.[citation needed]
In the second section of the song, Lennon lists many idols that he does not believe in (including The Beatles), ending by stating that he just believes in himself. Other idols he listed included magic, I Ching, Bible, tarot, Hitler, Jesus, Kennedy, Buddha, mantra, Gita, yoga, kings, Elvis, and Bob Dylan.
The final section of the song describes Lennon's change since the breakup of the Beatles. He states that he is no longer the "Dreamweaver" or "The Walrus," but just "John." The final line of the song, "The dream is over," represents Lennon's stance that the myth of the Beatles was officially through.[citation needed]
[edit] Trivia
- The line "I don't believe in Beatles, I just believe in me" was referenced in the 1986 film Ferris Bueller's Day Off.
- The song has been performed by Queen guitarist Brian May.[1]
- Irish rock band U2 wrote a song entitled God Part II, referring to the original Lennon song. The lyrics, written by lead singer Bono, continue the pattern of stating things he doesn't believe in.
