Brighton Beach Boys: John Lennon

John Lennon's post-Beatles life marked a radical departure from his previous artistic identity, as he embraced political activism, experimental music, and domestic life with Yoko Ono. After the Beatles' dissolution in 1970, Lennon released his raw, confessional solo debut "John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band," which featured primal scream therapy-influenced vocals and stark arrangements that challenged his pop music past.

His 1971 follow-up "Imagine" became his most celebrated solo work, with its title track emerging as an enduring anthem for peace. During this period, Lennon and Ono became increasingly involved in anti-war activism, using their celebrity status to stage high-profile peaceful protests like the "Bed-In for Peace" and releasing politically charged songs such as "Give Peace a Chance" and "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)."

The Nixon administration's attempts to deport Lennon due to his political activities led to a lengthy legal battle from 1972-1976, during which he immersed himself in New York's counterculture. This period coincided with his notorious "Lost Weekend" - an 18-month separation from Yoko Ono during which he created the nostalgic "Rock 'n' Roll" album while living in Los Angeles with May Pang.

Reconciling with Ono in 1975, Lennon retreated from public life to focus on raising their son Sean. This five-year hiatus was broken with the release of his 1980 comeback album "Double Fantasy," created with Ono, which explores themes of family, love, and contentment, showing remarkable artistic maturity.

Tragically, Lennon was murdered outside his New York apartment just weeks after the album's release.

His post-Beatles work revealed an artist willing to bare his soul, challenge conventional wisdom, and evolve beyond his mop-top image.

The Brighton Beach Boys, featuring Steve Wrigley, Glen Richardson, Jono Harrison, Adrian Marshall, Charlotte Glasson and Tom Arnold have created a show that explores the depth of this treasure trove of music, highlighting the genius of Lennon’s songwriting, is fire and clarity of activism, and sense of play in experiencing life to the full. Featuring music from across his post-Beatles career, and some choice songs form The Beatles this show will mark what would have been his 86th birthday.

Doors: 7:30pm (Main Venue)
£20adv/more on the door
Over 18's