Power to the People: Top 10 Lyrics Channeling John Lennon’s Whistleblower Spirit
John Lennon, like so many of our music icons, was as much about the message as the music. In addition to his mellifluous melodies, Lennon was known for his outspoken political activism and unbridled willingness to challenge societal norms. He often used his music as a platform to express his beliefs, protest, seek truths, and advocate for peace and social justice.
As a solo artist outside of The Beatles, many of his songs expose injustice, question authority, and encourage listeners to critically think about the world. He was greatly involved in the 1960s counterculture movement.
Lennon vocally criticized war, specifically the Vietnam War. His anti-war activism included nonviolent protests, such as “Bed-ins for Peace” with Yoko Ono. The couple became significant protest movement figures in the 1960s-1970s.
In all this, Lennon shared many of the same qualities as whistleblowers, bringing truth to power, standing tall in the face of injustice, and shining a light on issues and events that rubbed against his moral compass. It has been more than 40 years since his untimely passing, but the songs and substance of Lennon’s teachings are alive and well.
To celebrate Lennon’s work in time for the new Martin Scorsese-directed documentary, Beatles ’64 on Disney+, we’ve selected 10 essential song lyrics that showcase Lennon’s whistleblower spirit.
10. “Imagine” (1971)
One of Lennon’s most recognized songs in terms of peace and activism. A call to action for people to envision a world without war, division, or borders. While “Imagine” is not explicitly a whistleblower song, its message of dreaming for a better world aligns with Lennon’s consistent calls for change and his strong belief in a world free from the destructive forces of divisiveness.
“Imagine all the people
Livin’ life in peace
You
You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will be as one”
9. “Come Together” (1969)
Co-written with The Beatles, “Come Together” examines society’s fragmentation and confusion using imagery of people coming together despite their differences or imperfections. Lyrics share surreal portraits of various members of society from all backgrounds. This song suggests that people need to unite when overcoming challenges.
“Come together, right now, over me”
8. “Mind Games” (1973)
“Mind Games” breaks down the psychological manipulation that people often face from those in power. It criticizes coercive games that political leaders, corporations, and individuals play to control others. The song promotes breaking free from these traps, seeking truths, and understanding instead of just playing along with the forces that dominate society.
“We’re playing those mind games together
Pushing the barrier, planting seed
Playing the mind guerilla
Chanting the mantra, “peace on Earth”
We all been playing those mind games forever
Some kind of Druid dude, lifting the veil
Doing the mind guerrilla
Some call it magic, the search for the grail
“Faith in the future, out of the now”
7. “Mother” (1970)
While “Mother” dives into Lennon’s personal trauma, it could also be seen as a song challenging the idea of authority figures who impose control. It criticizes the lack of nurturing and emotional honesty in family relationships, which can mirror the absence of genuine care and consideration in larger social systems. This message can be heard as a sign to break away from cycles of disempowerment and control.
“What I have done
I couldn’t walk
And I tried to run”
6. “Instant Karma” (1970)
A song that encourages personal responsibility and emphasizes the idea that what goes around comes around, hence the title! This song is a personal and social critique asking people to take action, not wait for others to demand change, or for the world to magically improve by itself. “Instant Karma” harps on justice, self-awareness, and the power of direct action.
“Instant karma’s gonna hit you
Gonna hit your back off your feet
Better recognize your brothers
Everyone you meet
Why in the world are we here?
Surely not to live in pain and fear?
Why on earth are you there?
You’re everywhere, come and get your share”
5. “How Do You Sleep” (1971)
In this track, Lennon criticized Paul McCartney. However, this song explores wider themes of hypocrisy in the music business and perhaps society at large. It discusses false public personas and self-serving behaviors that attempt to cover up deeper issues.
“Baby, How Do You Sleep when you lie to me?
All that shame and all that danger”
4. Revolution (1968)
“Revolution” advocates for change in a thoughtful, non-violent manner rather than reckless upheaval. The song asks for reflection and caution when challenging authority, exposing corruption, or whistleblowing systemic wrongs.
“You say you want a revolution / Well, you know / We all wanna change the world”
3. “Working Class Hero” (1970)
A stark and critical look at the class system and the way society oppresses the working class, “Working Class Hero” is a scathing commentary on social inequality. Lennon expresses disillusionment with the establishment and the way people are conditioned to accept their place in a rigid social hierarchy.
“A working class hero is something to be”
2. “Gimme Some Truth” (1971)
This song brazenly condemns political and social hypocrisy. “Gimme Some Truth” slams lies, deception, and manipulation by those in power. The lyrics demand accountability and seek the truth, whether from the media, politicians, or societal systems.
“All I want is the truth / Just give me some truth”
1. “Power to the People” (1971)
Lennon’s “Power to the People” is a rallying cry for empowerment and political change, particularly for marginalized groups. This song is an anthem for grassroots activism, justice, and speaking out, while highlighting the collective power of ordinary people who choose to stand up against powerful groups.
“Power to the people, right on / Say you want a revolution
We better get on right away
Well you get on your feet
And into the street”