From the iconic Elvis to the legendary Roy Orbison, the influential Chuck Berry, and the beloved Buddy Holly, music has forever coursed through the veins of John Lennon. Always one to defy the norm, Lennon took solace in the unwavering defiance of rock ‘n’ roll and held onto it until his final moments. The Beatles explored various genres such as folk, pop, and psychedelia throughout their discography. Lennon’s true passion was always rock music.
The singer recognized the significance of music for the average working-class child and held songwriting in high regard as an art form. He carried this mindset throughout his tenure with The Beatles and his subsequent solo endeavors. Being able to craft and capture a melody that not only conveys a personal emotion but also resonates with a broader audience is an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. It’s a testament to the universal power of music. It holds a depth and significance that surpasses any religious or societal institution.
Lennon was quite secretive about his preferred artists, despite his deep passion for music. During The Beatles’ early days, he enthusiastically acknowledged the numerous influential musicians who had a profound impact on him and the band. Artists like Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins, The Shadows, and Bob Dylan were all sources of inspiration. Chuck Berry was famously described as the embodiment of rock and roll. Someone said, “If you tried to give rock and roll another name, you might call it Chuck Berry.” As time went on and Lennon’s fame increased, he seldom shared his thoughts on the music he enjoyed.
It’s quite intriguing, considering Lennon’s usual willingness to share his thoughts on almost any topic. When it comes to selecting his favorite artists, he only gives his stamp of approval to the founding fathers of his inspiration. His exceptional writing mostly left his peers unaffected, except for Dylan. That doesn’t mean that Lennon, just like any music enthusiast, didn’t have his preferred songs and artists.
Aside from Chuck Berry, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, and Buddy Holly, who were some other notable pop stars that resonated from the Beatles’ speakers? As reported by the Express, there was a particular song that Lennon considered to be his “all-time favorite.” The track, called ‘Angel Baby‘, is a hidden gem that was recorded by Rosie and the Originals back in 1960.
Lennon had a strong fondness for the track, as he chose it to be featured on a renowned covers album. Initially, John Lennon planned to include the song in his renowned cover album Rock ‘n’ Roll. It’s a record that is widely known for the singer. During the contractual agreement, Lennon delivered some of the covers over the phone, while he put his best effort into others. During the sessions, Lennon performed a rendition of the song ‘Angel Baby’. It likely fell into the category of songs that made an impact.
Recorded on October 26th, 1973, during his Lost Weekend period, Lennon seemed to be quite fond of the song’s initial version. Unfortunately, he chose not to include his cover on the album release, despite its undeniable quality.
The reason behind Lennon’s decision to remove the song from the release remains a mystery. The doo-wop number resonated deeply with him. Reflecting on the past, Lennon fondly remembered: “This is one of my favorite songs of all time.” Also, don’t forget to send my love to Rosie, no matter where she is. While one might not anticipate it to be the typical rock and roll anthem, it undeniably brims with emotion. It’s probably the type of song Lennon would envision himself swaying to during a romantic moment after a bike race.
John Lennon embodied a complex blend of qualities, a paradoxical mix of peace and violence. He was a folkish hero who challenged his heroic image and a musician who effortlessly transitioned between rock and the most heartfelt pop ballads.
Experience the timeless beauty of Rosie and the Originals’ song ‘Angel Baby’, a personal favorite of John Lennon. Listen to it below.
