John Lennon and Yoko Ono – Happy Xmas, War is Over Review
Leave it to John Lennon and Yoko Ono to strip away the lightheartedness of Christmas. They approach the holidays with sincerity, using the occasion to honor those who are unable to celebrate. While Band Aid attempted a similar effort with their catchy charity campaign, it lacks the emotional depth found in "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)." As we reflect on Christmas, it’s clear that the struggles of the season aren’t overlooked by other artists who release holiday songs, whether before or after. However, the collaboration between Lennon and Ono stands out for its quality. It has earned its place as a timeless classic, influencing a wide range of artists from Mud to LCD Soundsystem. Even tracks that were released prior to "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" have found new life, re-entering the real conversations we have around Christmas time.
"Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" brings up some intriguing questions as it continues to be discussed over time. Much like "Fairytale of New York," it prompts conversations about its underlying themes. This collaboration between Lennon and Ono presents a self-righteous declaration that reveals a more somber perspective on what is often considered the most joyful season. Despite the prevailing festive spirit, they consistently used their art as a platform for protest, showcasing their avant-garde style, even if some aspects of it haven't aged well. Nevertheless, their commitment to promoting a better world and their musical creativity shines through. While nostalgia plays a significant role in the song, so does its acoustic warmth, its vibrant energy, and the emotional weight carried by the poignant lyrics that critique the holiday season.
When we look at Lennon’s solo work alongside his creations with The Plastic Ono Band, it's easy to rank "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" among his finest pieces. Yoko Ono plays a significant role here as well, and the complex dynamics of their relationship, which often raises eyebrows among Beatles fans, serves as a unique artistic element in the song. On the flip side, "Listen, The Snow is Falling" offers its own charm. While it may not carry the same heavy impact as the A-side, it has a lovely atmosphere and reflects the influence of The Plastic Ono Band. An enduring debate arises about how it compares to Paul McCartney's holiday song. What’s the basis for this comparison? McCartney crafted a lively celebration of indulgence, whereas Lennon approached the season with a more somber and reflective perspective.
Everyone has their preferences, but having two of the Fab Four contribute to festive music is a delightful surprise. "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" embodies John Lennon and Yoko Ono's enduring message of world peace while also standing out as a great holiday song. It combines the classic feel of a timeless tune with a serious and thoughtful urgency, providing a balance to the more sentimental and nagging lyrical elements. Lennon described it as a way to “deliver a political message with a bit of sweetness,” similar to his approach in "Imagine." This song captures the holiday spirit through an upbeat chorus and a children's choir, allowing Lennon and Ono to deliver a powerful and beautifully articulated message. It reminds us of the joy of the season and the reasons it brings such happiness, though it may not resonate with everyone. Despite its clear intentions, Lennon and Ono manage to present their message in a way that feels more meaningful than just a reprimand.
