About The Song
“God” is a song by John Lennon from his debut solo album, “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band,” released in 1970. The album is known for its raw and introspective nature, reflecting Lennon’s personal and emotional struggles during a period of profound change.Five facts about “God”:
- Album Context: “God” appears as the final track on the “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” album, a record that marked a departure from the more polished sound of The Beatles. The album is renowned for its stark, confessional lyrics and stripped-down musical arrangements.
- Philosophical Reflection: The lyrics of “God” are a poignant reflection of Lennon’s evolving spiritual and philosophical beliefs. In the song, he famously declares, “I don’t believe in Beatles” and goes on to renounce various ideologies and figures, emphasizing his personal growth and rejection of external influences.
- Minimalistic Arrangement: Musically, “God” is characterized by a minimalistic arrangement, featuring Lennon’s vocals accompanied by a simple piano line. The sparse instrumentation enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics and contributes to the overall intimate atmosphere of the album.
- Collaboration with Ringo Starr: The album “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” features contributions from Ringo Starr, who played drums on several tracks, including “God.” This collaboration marked one of the instances where two former Beatles worked together on a post-Beatles project.
- Impact and Legacy: “God” has been regarded as one of John Lennon’s most powerful and introspective compositions. Its honesty and vulnerability have resonated with listeners, and the song continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the singer-songwriter genre and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
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Lyrics
God is a concept by which measures our pain
I’ll say it again
God is a concept by which measures our painI don’t believe in magic
I don’t believe in I-ching
I don’t believe in Bible
I don’t believe in Tarot
I don’t believe in Hitler
I don’t believe in Jesus
I don’t believe in Jesus
I don’t believe in Kennedy
I don’t believe in Buddha
I don’t believe in Mantra
I don’t believe in Gita
I don’t believe in Yoga
I don’t believe in Kings
I don’t believe in Elvis
I don’t believe in Zimmerman
I don’t believe in the BeatlesI just believe in me, Yoko, and me, and that’s reality
The dream is over
What can I say?
The Dream is over
Yesterday
I was the Dreamweaver
But now I’m reborn
I was the walrus
But now I’m John
And so, dear friends
You’ll just have to carry on
The dream is over