The Songs of John Lennon

Ever wondered how John Lennon crafted songs that shook the world—and still give us chills decades later? The Songs of John Lennon is your backstage pass to understanding the genius behind some of the Beatles’ most iconic tracks.

Written by John Stevens, a Berklee College of Music professor who’s spent over 20 years teaching one of the school’s most beloved courses, this essential guide breaks down 25 Beatles-era hits with the precision of a master craftsman examining a work of art. Stevens explores the three pillars of Lennon’s songwriting—melody, harmony, and lyric—revealing how intuitive brilliance and technical mastery combined to create songs that were both revolutionary in the ’60s and timeless today.

Inside, you’ll find in-depth musical analysis of classics like:

• “A Hard Day’s Night”
• “Ticket to Ride”
• “Norwegian Wood”
• “Strawberry Fields Forever”
• “Come Together”

As singer-songwriter Marshall Crenshaw puts it: “You’ve got the Beatles’ records and the John Lennon records; now with this book, you can have the Owner’s Manual.”

Whether you’re a songwriter looking to understand what makes great songs tick, a Beatles devotee hungry for deeper insight, or simply someone who wants to appreciate Lennon’s artistry on a whole new level, this Berklee Press publication belongs on your shelf. It’s not just about nostalgia—it’s about discovering why these songs continue to matter.

Additional information