John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s ‘Power to the People’ Box Set to Arrive October 10
Table of Contents
A comprehensive 12-disc collection chronicling John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s early years in New York City will be released on October 10 via Universal Music Group. The expansive box set, titled Power to the People, promises a deep dive into a pivotal period for the iconic couple, featuring 90 previously unreleased recordings.
The collection offers fans an unprecedented look into the creative process of Lennon and Ono, encompassing demos, home recordings, and extensive jam sessions. A significant portion of the set is dedicated to live performances, including a compilation of material from their groundbreaking 1972 One to One shows at Madison Square Garden.
A Newly Reimagined Sonic Landscape
Beyond the unreleased material, Power to the People presents a newly mixed and reimagined version of their 1972 album, Sometime in New York City. This fresh perspective on a classic album is expected to resonate with longtime fans and introduce a new generation to their politically charged and sonically innovative work.
The project, attributed to John & Yoko/Plastic Ono Band, also highlights the contributions of their frequent collaborators. Bands like Elephant’s Memory and Invisible Strings, who often backed Lennon and Ono during this era, are prominently featured. The set further boasts appearances from musical luminaries such as Frank Zappa and the Mothers, David Peel and the Lower East Side, and Phil Ochs.
Sean Ono Lennon Leads the Production
The entire project was spearheaded by Sean Ono Lennon, ensuring a deeply personal and authentic approach to curating and producing these historical recordings. His involvement underscores the family’s commitment to preserving and sharing the legacy of his parents’ work.
In a statement included in the box set’s preface, Yoko Ono reflected on the significance of the One to One concert. “The One To One concert was our effort in Grassroots Politics. It embodied what John and I strongly believed in – Rock for Peace and Enlightenment. And this one in Madison Square Garden turned out to be the last concert John and I did together. Imagine Peace. Peace is Power. Power To The People!”
This poignant quote underscores the couple’s unwavering dedication to peace and social justice, themes that permeated their music and activism. Power to the People is poised to be more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to a powerful artistic and political partnership.
