4 of the Most Heartbreaking Tribute Songs Dedicated to John Lennon

The murder of John Lennon in 1980 shook the world, and his absence left a hole in the music world and the hearts of those who loved him. Naturally, quite a few musicians who cared for John Lennon produced some truly beautiful tribute songs for him. Let’s look at just a few heartwrenching examples.

1. “Here Today” by Paul McCartney

Their relationship may have been groundbreakingly creative at best and vitriolic at worst, but one can’t deny that Paul McCartney and John Lennon had a connection that few talented artists had. McCartney penned “Here Today” two years after the death of Lennon, and the nature of the song is so heartbreaking. 

The song’s lyrics feature McCartney asking his late friend a number of questions, and answering them in a way that Lennon likely would. “Here Today” is one of the most beautiful examples out there of how to process one’s grief through music.

2. “Roll On John” by Bob Dylan

This is one of the most stunning John Lennon tribute songs out there, and it proved that Lennon’s legacy still affected his friends and contemporaries decades after he passed. Bob Dylan released “Roll On John” in 2012 as a tribute to the former Beatle. The lyrical references in this song, like “Come together right now”, are very emotional. We’d say this track is the most emotional piece of work on Tempest.

3. “Empty Garden” by Elton John

If you’re a fan of John Lennon, this Elton John classic is not a very easy listen. Elton John and John Lennon were very good friends, and John also had a hand in producing Lennon’s only solo no. 1 hit. John paid tribute to his late friend with “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” in 1982.

“It’s very hard for me to sing it,” said John of “Empty Garden”. “I get quite emotional singing that song.”

4. “All Those Years Ago” by George Harrison

George Harrison’s contribution to the pool of John Lennon tribute songs is just as lovely as the rest. Released months after Lennon’s untimely death, Harrison penned “All Those Years Ago” as a tribute but also as a way to express his grief over losing not only his friend and bandmate, but his mentor. 

Originally, though, the song was written for a Ringo Starr album. Harrison decided to take it back and revamp the lyrics as a sendoff for Lennon.

Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images

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