Every artist has a love-hate relationship with their own voice at some point. No matter how many times someone is praised as the next Freddie Mercury, it’s hard to listen to your own singing for too long without finding flaws.
Even the biggest stars have faced frustration when their voice didn’t sound the way they wanted. For John Lennon, this struggle was a constant, and one track from his album Rock ‘n’ Roll, “Just Because,” was a particular thorn in his side.
Why Lennon Had to Record “Just Because”
Lennon may never have needed to record “Just Because” if it weren’t for a legal issue. His hit “Come Together” was a little too similar to Chuck Berry’s “You Can’t Catch Me,” and as part of a settlement, Lennon agreed to record an album of rock standards, which included “Just Because.”
Though it was born out of a legal obligation, Lennon’s choice to revisit the rock ‘n’ roll classics was fitting. After all, this was the music he had played during his early days, before The Beatles hit it big.
His covers of songs by legends like Little Richard and Buddy Holly were a nod to those scrappy bar band days that first ignited his love for rock ‘n’ roll.
Lennon’s Uncomfortable Relationship with Rock Covers
Even though Lennon had a knack for belting out rock tunes, not all songs suited him equally. While his performances on tracks like Buddy Holly’s “Words of Love” and The Miracles’ “You Really Got a Hold On Me” were solid, he truly shined on raw, high-energy tracks like “Twist and Shout.”
Some songs just fit him better, while others, like “Just Because,” proved more difficult.
The Challenges
Recording “Just Because” was a struggle for Lennon. It wasn’t a song he knew well, unlike many of the other covers he recorded on Rock ‘n’ Roll. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Lennon reflected on the frustrating recording process:
“At the end of making that record, I was finishing up a track that Phil Spector had made me sing called ‘Just Because,’ which I really didn’t know — all the rest I’d done as a teenager, so I knew them backward — and I couldn’t get the hang of it.”
Despite his frustration, Lennon’s talent still shone through. Even when he wasn’t fully comfortable with a song, he had the ability to deliver memorable performances. Tracks like “Slippin’ and Slidin’” showcased his vocal power, and though “Just Because” didn’t come as naturally to him, his voice still carried the song.
A Glimpse of Early Lennon
“Just Because” offers fans a rare glimpse into Lennon’s early rock roots. The song’s doo-wop style and simple, innocent lyrics about wanting to dance with a lover reflect a different side of the famously complex musician.
It’s a throwback to the pure, carefree love songs of the past, far removed from the deeper emotional weight of songs like “Imagine.”
Though Lennon may not have felt entirely at home with the track, his smooth, nostalgic delivery gives it a unique charm. It’s not the emotionally raw Lennon that fans heard on other records, but the confident, rebellious Teddy Boy, reminiscent of his early days in leather jackets and slicked-back hair.
Conclusion
“Just Because” might not be Lennon’s finest vocal moment, but it’s still a testament to his versatility and vocal ability. Even when battling with a song he didn’t feel connected to, Lennon could still deliver a performance that resonated with listeners.
For fans, it’s a glimpse of the rock icon’s early days and a reminder of the immense talent he brought to every track, even the ones he didn’t fully love.
