John Lennon

United Kingdom, 1957–1980

English singer and songwriter (1940-1980), a founder of the Beatles. His solo records, including 'Imagine', 'Working Class Hero' and 'Instant Karma!', combined rock and roll form with directly personal and political lyrics.

MusicRoots documents 3 artists who influenced John Lennon and 1 artist John Lennon influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced John Lennon?

• Elvis Presley — Elvis was Lennon's idol — the spark that made him want to be a rock'n'roller.
• Chuck Berry — Chuck Berry's guitar and wordplay were foundational to Lennon's rock'n'roll.
• Bob Dylan — Dylan's confessional, personally reflective songwriting landed most heavily on Lennon, deepening his lyrics.

Which artists did John Lennon influence?

• David Bowie — The two wrote 'Fame' together at Electric Lady in January 1975 and cut 'Across the Universe' at the same sessions; Bowie afterwards named Lennon the mentor who taught him to say a thing plainly.