In this insightful interview, Sean Ono Lennon delves into the influences that shaped his unique musical journey. Lennon's fascination with dark, dissonant music can be traced back to two intriguing sources: Disney's Fantasia and his father, John Lennon's iconic Beatles song, 'I Want You (She's So Heavy).'
What makes this particularly fascinating is the unexpected connection between Lennon's love for classical music and his father's groundbreaking work. Lennon reveals that his classical tastes were heavily influenced by the iconic Disney film, Fantasia, which introduced him to the darker side of music. He describes the film's soundtrack as an 'incredible selection of pieces,' featuring Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring and 'Night on Bald Mountain' by Modest Mussorgsky.
In my opinion, this revelation highlights the power of media in shaping artistic tastes. It's intriguing to see how a child's fascination with a Disney film can lead to an appreciation for complex and dissonant music. This demonstrates the profound impact that media can have on our understanding and enjoyment of art.
Lennon's interest in dark and dissonant notes is further emphasized by his fascination with his father's song, 'I Want You (She's So Heavy).' He describes the song as a 'very dark riff' and expresses wonder about its origins. This raises a deeper question about the creative process and the influence of personal experiences on artistic expression.
One thing that immediately stands out is the song's historical context. Lennon notes that the song was written during a time when rock music was becoming increasingly heavy, with bands like The Who, Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, Blue Cheer, and Black Sabbath paving the way. This heavy riff, according to Lennon, might be considered the first of its kind in rock music.
What many people don't realize is the sophistication and uniqueness of 'I Want You (She's So Heavy).' Lennon compares it to Led Zeppelin's 'The Rain Song,' suggesting that certain songs stand out due to their historical significance and the questions they raise about the creative process.
The interview also touches on Lennon's collaboration with Les Claypool, a bass guitarist known for his work with Primus. Lennon mentions a shared love for the darker side of music, which is a cornerstone of their creative partnership. This highlights the importance of shared interests in fostering artistic collaborations.
In conclusion, this interview offers a captivating glimpse into Sean Ono Lennon's musical journey and the influences that shaped his unique style. It showcases the power of media, personal experiences, and shared interests in shaping artistic tastes and collaborations. It's a reminder that art can be influenced by a wide range of factors, and sometimes, the most unexpected sources can lead to profound artistic expressions.
