Julian Lennon, the son of the legendary John Lennon, had made a solemn promise never to perform his father’s renowned anthem of peace, “Imagine.” He had decided that he would only break this vow if the world was on the brink of destruction. However, compelled by the ongoing war in Ukraine, the 59-year-old musician felt an undeniable urge to publicly present the song as part of the 2022 Global Citizen’s Stand Up for Ukraine fundraiser.
In a simple yet profoundly moving rendition, Julian delivered the song, capturing the same power and emotion that his father had infused into it when it was released back in 1971. Julian expressed that the unimaginable tragedy unfolding in Ukraine had motivated him to respond in the most impactful way possible.
“The essence of this song embodies the hope for a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel,” Julian wrote. “Due to the ongoing and senseless violence, millions of innocent families have been uprooted from their homes, forced to seek shelter and safety elsewhere.”
Since the war’s onset in February, over 4.5 million refugees have fled Ukraine. During the Global Citizen’s fundraiser, where Julian performed, an astounding sum of over $10 billion was pledged to support these displaced individuals, according to Deadline.
Contributions came from governments, companies, and individuals worldwide, accounting for half of the donations. The remaining half consisted of grants and loans from European financial institutions. Julian, the son of John Lennon and his first wife Cynthia Lennon, called upon people across the globe not only to assist the refugees from Ukraine but also to aid those seeking a better life in other parts of the world.
“I implore world leaders and individuals who resonate with the spirit of ‘Imagine’ to rise up and support refugees wherever they may be. Let us advocate for their well-being and contribute with heartfelt generosity.”
It is an indescribably beautiful gesture. Julian’s rendition of “Imagine” and his heartfelt plea to assist the refugees of the Ukrainian war transcend words. Let us share Julian Lennon’s version of “Imagine” far and wide, spreading awareness and fostering peace throughout the world.
