John Lennon, known for his immense contributions to the music world, only reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart once during his lifetime. Despite achieving great success with The Beatles, it was his 1974 song “Whatever Gets You Thru The Night” that made it to the number one spot, with a little help from his friend Elton John.
Inspired by late-night television viewing, Lennon’s song title and message stemmed from a quote by Reverend Ike, a Black evangelist, who famously said, “It doesn’t matter, it’s whatever gets you through the night.” This unconventional source of inspiration led to the creation of a chart-topping hit.
Joined by Elton John, Lennon worked on the song that eventually became a standout track on his 1974 album “Walls and Bridges.” John added his musical touch to the song, providing piano, organ, and vocal harmonies, enhancing the overall sound. The collaboration between the two iconic musicians resulted in a bet: if the song reached number one, Lennon would perform live with John at Madison Square Garden.
In November 1974, Lennon kept his promise and joined Elton John on stage, delighting fans with a live performance of their hit song. The event marked Lennon’s last major live performance before his tragic passing in 1980. Despite this being their only chart-topping collaboration, Lennon and John’s dynamic partnership left a lasting impact on music history.
After Lennon’s death, his legacy continued with another Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper, “(Just Like) Starting Over,” which spent five weeks at number one. This posthumous success served as a testament to Lennon’s enduring influence and talent in the music industry.
In the world of music, John Lennon’s impact is undeniable, and his chart-topping hits continue to resonate with fans around the world. His collaborations with artists like Elton John showcase his versatility and creativity, leaving behind a timeless legacy that transcends generations.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.