What makes Cold Turkey by Plastic Ono Band notable?

Cold Turkey is notable for its candid depiction of addiction and withdrawal, themes that resonated deeply in the cultural climate of the late 1960s. It peaked at number 14 on the UK Singles Chart and has since influenced countless artists in the rock and experimental genres, symbolizing a break from conventional pop music norms. Released on October 20, 1969, Cold Turkey was the first single by the Plastic Ono Band, marking John Lennon's shift towards a more experimental and introspective sound following his departure from The Beatles earlier that year. This album epitomized Lennon's exploration of personal pain and social issues, setting the stage for his subsequent solo career.

How many songs are on Cold Turkey?

Cold Turkey has 2 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Cold Turkey

Plastic Ono Band · 1969

9 min · 2 tracks · rock music

Raw and confrontational, the album blends avant-garde experimentation with visceral rock energy that reflects deep personal struggles.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cold Turkey — The title track encapsulates intense feelings of isolation and desperation during withdrawal, driven by frenetic instrumentation that mirrors the chaos of addiction.
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Don’t Worry, Kyoko (Mummy’s Only Looking for Her Hand in the Snow) — This track showcases Lennon's raw emotional vulnerability while also addressing themes of loss and longing through unconventional song structure and haunting vocals.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Cold Turkey 4:59
2 Don’t Worry, Kyoko (Mummy’s Only Looking for Her Hand in the Snow) 4:52

What to play next

Go back to

Give Peace a Chance

1969

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