In a poignant moment, Julian Lennon, son of the legendary John Lennon, set aside his vow never to perform “Imagine” – the iconic peace anthem – unless the world was on the brink of ending. The 59-year-old musician was compelled to sing the song publicly for the first time as part of the 2022 Global Citizen’s Stand Up for Ukraine campaign, in response to the devastating conflict in Ukraine.
Julian’s rendition was a heartfelt tribute to his father’s 1971 classic, which resonated just as deeply. He explained that the “unimaginable tragedy” in Ukraine moved him to “respond in the most significant way” he could. The song, he wrote, represents the “light at the end of the tunnel” that we all hope for, as millions of innocent families are forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
Since the war began in late February, over 4.5 million people have fled Ukraine as refugees. During the Global Citizen fundraiser, Julian performed at, an astonishing $10 billion was pledged in support of Ukrainian refugees. The donations came from governments, companies, individuals, and public European financial institutions.
Julian, son of John Lennon and Cynthia Lennon, urged people worldwide to support not just Ukrainian refugees but also those seeking a better life everywhere. He appealed, “I’m calling on world leaders and everyone who believes in the sentiment of IMAGINE, to stand up for refugees everywhere! Please advocate and donate from the heart.”
Julian’s performance and call to action were nothing short of beautiful. Share his version of “Imagine” to spread awareness and promote peace globally.