Remember When: John Lennon Fended off a Lawsuit by Making a Chaotic Covers Album
John Lennon’s 1975 album "Rock 'n' Roll" was a tribute to the music he idolized, yet the chaotic creation almost prevented its completion.
The album's production involved lawsuits, gunplay, and stolen tapes, making the process resemble international espionage rather than simple rock music recording.
The saga began with "Come Together," a Beatles song leading to Morris Levy's lawsuit claiming it resembled Chuck Berry's "You Can't Catch Me," which Levy owned.
To avoid a lawsuit, Lennon agreed to record songs from Levy's catalog, leading to tumultuous sessions with Phil Spector during Lennon’s “Lost Weekend” period.
Despite challenges, including Levy selling unfinished tapes, Lennon completed "Rock 'n' Roll," which saw moderate success and marked his temporary retirement from recording.