Live in New York City cover

Released 40 years ago

Live in New York City

John Lennon · 1986

42 min · 11 tracks · hard rock · pop rock · psychedelic rock

Raw and impassioned, this live album captures John Lennon’s dynamic energy and political fervor in the heart of New York City.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • raw energy of live performance
  • political fervor and passion
  • wave-like emotional fluctuations
  • cathartic crowd engagement moments
  • short bursts of impactful songs

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking polished studio sound
  • prefer lengthy, meditative tracks

Where this album fits

Themes
New York City activism· feminist discourse· personal addiction struggle
Career context
Released in 1986, 'Live in New York City' came during a period when John Lennon was re-establishing his solo career after a five-year hiatus. It featured performances that combined familiar hits with bold political commentary, marking a return to the stage for Lennon since his last major concert in 1974.
Stylistic neighbors
David Bowie· Paul McCartney· George Harrison
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Times They Are a-Changin' by Bob Dylan — Shares a raw political fervor and social commentary reflective of the 1960s activism spirit.
Horses by Patti Smith — Captures similar impassioned energy and NYC grit, with themes of feminism and personal struggle.
Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen — Combines anthemic rock sound with narratives of personal and social struggles in urban settings.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 New York City 3:39
  • 2 It’s So Hard 3:18
  • 3 Woman Is the Nigger of the World 5:30
  • 4 Well, Well, Well 3:50
  • 5 Instant Karma (We All Shine On) 3:40
  • 6 Mother 4:59
  • 7 Come Together 4:20
  • 8 Imagine 3:17
  • 9 Cold Turkey 5:29
  • 10 Hound Dog 3:10
  • 11 Give Peace a Chance 1:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata