More than four decades after his death, John Lennon’s music still carries a relevant message across generations.
Whether it’s the haunting peace anthem he penned at his white grand piano or a lullaby written for his young son, Lennon’s solo catalogue contains some of the most powerful songs of the 20th century.
Using global streaming figures, we count down Lennon’s 10 most famous solo tracks:
10. Mind Games (Remastered 2010)
45,684,040 streams
Written during the dissolution of his marriage and the height of his activist period, ‘Mind Games’ is often overshadowed by Lennon’s bigger hits. But its layered production, dreamy vocals, and message of “mind guerrillas” and peace continue the spiritual themes of his earlier work. Though not a chart-topper, it’s found a lasting audience – and over 45 million streams prove its staying power.
9. Working Class Hero (Remastered 2010)
48,554,223 streams
Arguably Lennon’s most politically charged solo song, ‘Working Class Hero’ paints a picture of conformity, capitalism, and societal conditioning. Released in 1970, it was deemed too explicit for radio due to its language but quickly became a favourite among protest singers and counterculture fans. Its raw, acoustic production and bitter lyricism have ensured its cult status, even if it hasn’t reached the same streaming heights as his softer ballads.
8. Hold On (Remastered 2010)
68,277,430 streams
A deep cut from John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, ‘Hold On’ sees Lennon grappling with anxiety, isolation, and the need for inner peace. At just over a minute and a half, it’s a brief meditation wrapped in subtle guitar and minimal production. It’s also the track where Lennon famously whispers “cookie” in a nod to the Cookie Monster. While not a hit at the time, it’s amassed over 68 million streams since.
7. (Just Like) Starting Over (Remastered 2010)
78,023,347 streams
This retro-style comeback single was released just weeks before Lennon’s tragic death in 1980. Blending ‘50s nostalgia with contemporary production, ‘Starting Over’ marked the beginning of a new chapter for Lennon and Yoko. It reached number one posthumously and became the symbol of one of the most bittersweet moments in pop history.
6. Stand By Me (Remastered 2010)
138,058,199 streams
Lennon’s 1975 cover of the Ben E. King classic may not have been a groundbreaking original, but it’s one of his best-known solo recordings. Featured on the Rock ‘n’ Roll album, ‘Stand By Me’ sees Lennon revisiting his musical roots with a raw and bluesy take. Its success lies in its simplicity – and in Lennon’s delivery, which is both powerful and peaecful.
5. Jealous Guy (Remastered 2010)
153,996,016 streams
Originally written during the Beatles’ time in India under the title Child of Nature, this became one of Lennon’s most confessional tracks. Reworked for his Imagine album, ‘Jealous Guy’ sees Lennon apologising for his flaws and possessiveness in relationships. It was posthumously covered by Roxy Music in 1981 and became a UK number one.
4. Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy) (Remastered 2010)
215,248,867 streams
A rare and heartfelt ode from father to son, ‘Beautiful Boy’ captures Lennon at his most intimate. Written for his son Sean and included on Double Fantasy, the song was a world away from political slogans or global manifestos. With lines like “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans,” Lennon managed to distil a lifetime of wisdom into three minutes. It wasn’t released as a single in his lifetime, but the track has grown in stature over the years – and even Paul McCartney named it as his favourite Lennon solo track.
3. Woman (Remastered 2010)
352,476,981 streams
Released shortly after Lennon’s death in 1980, ‘Woman’ was a love letter to Yoko Ono – tender, vulnerable and unashamedly romantic. It reached number one in the UK in early 1981, with Lennon’s soft vocal delivery making it one of his most emotional tracks. He famously described it as a grown-up version of ‘Girl’ from the Beatles era.
2. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) (Remastered 2010)
677,809,640 streams
Like many other icons, John and Yoko also tried their hand at Christmas tunes – by whispering “So this is Christmas…” over chiming bells and a children’s choir. Released in 1971, this anti-war anthem was born from the couple’s peace activism and billboards bearing the phrase “War is Over! If You Want It.”
1. Imagine (Remastered 2010)
768,701,637 streams
It’s the obvious choice, and still the one that towers above the rest. Imagine is not just Lennon’s most famous solo song, it’s arguably the most iconic peace anthem ever written. Recorded in 1971 at his Ascot home, the track urges listeners to envision a world without borders, religion or possessions. Its message, stark piano, and gentle vocal delivery have made it Lennon’s defining statement – covered by everyone from Elton John to Lady Gaga.