Few bands have achieved the legendary status of The Beatles. Their music, innovation, and impact on culture have cemented them as icons of popular music. Yet, even within the band, opinions about their work varied.
John Lennon, known for his sharp wit and outspoken nature, didn’t shy away from criticizing The Beatles’ songs—even ones fans adored. He was never one to sugarcoat his opinions, no matter how controversial they might be.
Some of his harshest critiques were directed at the band’s own catalog. From questioning their creativity to outright dismissing certain tracks, Lennon’s views offer a fascinating perspective on their legacy.
Lennon’s Sharp Critique
Among the 200-plus songs The Beatles created, not every track was a masterpiece. Despite their immense talent, some compositions fell short in John Lennon’s eyes.
Lennon, the band’s founder and its most outspoken member, often voiced his dissatisfaction with certain songs. He wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, even when it meant criticizing his own work.
Famous for his controversial statement that The Beatles were “more popular than Jesus Christ,” Lennon remained unapologetically honest. His candid opinions extended to their music, sparking debates that continue to this day.
Post-Beatles Criticisms
During the ’60s, John Lennon refrained from openly criticizing The Beatles’ songs. However, after the band’s breakup, his views shifted dramatically. He began expressing disdain for several tracks, including some of Paul McCartney’s most famous compositions.
Lennon’s growing rivalry with McCartney fueled his public critiques. Their strained relationship even spilled into Lennon’s solo work, notably in the song “How Do You Sleep?” from his 1971 album Imagine. The biting lyrics mocked McCartney, claiming he’d only written one notable song in his career: “Yesterday.”
The feud and Lennon’s sharp critiques added a new layer of intrigue to The Beatles’ legacy. Below, we examine 22 tracks Lennon harshly criticized, showcasing his unfiltered perspective on the band’s celebrated catalog.