John Lennon's Obsession with Elvis Presley: Aamppa of Rock and Roll

John Lennon's lifelong admiration for Elvis Presley was well-documented. In an early interview, Lennon famously declared 'Before Elvis there was nothing,' highlighting the monumental impact of Presley on the music industry. His deep love for rock and roll music was inseparable from the influence of Elvis, who shaped his musical taste and career trajectory.

Elvis in Lennon's Life

During the early 1970s, when Lennon frequented awards shows, he often wore a diamond pin that bore the word 'ELVIS.' This small but significant detail underscored his enduring affection for the King of Rock and Roll. However, his affection extended beyond mere accessory choices; in more intimate moments, he even decorated his jukebox with all of Elvis's hit songs, making the music always available.

As he settled into New York and took on the role of a stay-at-home husband, he further demonstrated his cherished place of Elvis in his life, choosing to honor his musical hero with a dedicated jukebox filled with Presley's recordings. It is evident that Elvis and his early rock music had a transformative effect on John Lennon's life.

Elvis and the Beatles

Lennon's deep-seated fandom for Elvis was not just personal but influenced the music of the Beatles as well. It is suggested that the Beatles' hit track 'She Loves You' was inspired by one of Elvis's songs, displaying the significant influence Elvis had on the musicians.

Elvis's Impact on Lennon's Early Life

As a teenager, Lennon was a die-hard 'Elvis freak,' with a profound admiration for the singer. He even went so far as to declare, 'Elvis died when he went into the Army,' emphasizing his deep gratitude towards Elvis. Another reflection of John's admiration was his assertion, 'Until Elvis there was nothing'; this phrase served as a testament to the revolutionary and irreplaceable role Elvis played in his life.

The Discrepancy in Taste

While John Lennon's admiration for Elvis was evident, there was a noticeable difference in their tastes. John cherished Elvis's original sounds, finding them superior to the Beatles' music. This stark contrast in musical preferences might have resulted in some tension, given that the two men held different political views as well. Elvis was known for his support of the Vietnam War, embodying a 'hawk' stance, whereas John Lennon was a pacifist and dove in these matters.

Conclusion

In sum, John Lennon's admiration for Elvis Presley goes far beyond simple fandom. His personal and professional life was deeply influenced by Elvis, and he acknowledged the pivotal role Elvis played in his life. Despite their political differences, Elvis's music and spirit continued to resonate with Lennon, making him a lifelong aamppa (fan) of rock and roll.