Elon Musk probably has this music video on loop.
On Monday, Future and Metro Boomin released the video for their We Don’t Trust You song “Young Metro,” which sees the pair of musicians posing and dancing in front of a Tesla Cybertruck.
The Hidji World and Omar Jones-directed video splices a clip of Future dropping the song’s lyrics as they pose in front of a cement building and numerous women, “superstar hoes” as Future calls them, posing around them.
Then, The Weeknd, wearing a black bandana over his face,...
On Monday, Future and Metro Boomin released the video for their We Don’t Trust You song “Young Metro,” which sees the pair of musicians posing and dancing in front of a Tesla Cybertruck.
The Hidji World and Omar Jones-directed video splices a clip of Future dropping the song’s lyrics as they pose in front of a cement building and numerous women, “superstar hoes” as Future calls them, posing around them.
Then, The Weeknd, wearing a black bandana over his face,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
One of John Lennon‘s songs sounds relaxing but it was actually an angry response the to popular perception of the “(Just Like) Starting Over” singer. He felt that outsiders didn’t understand who he really was. The song in question was a big hit in the United States but audiences in the United Kingdom were less enthused.
John Lennon wrote a song about how he’s not lazy
John’s “Watching the Wheels” includes the line “People think I’m lazy.” In a 1980 interview in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, John discussed the line. “I’m not lazy,” he said.
“I’ve done more in my life than most people would do in 10,” he added. “Absolutely! If I never did another damn thing! Even if I wasn’t just laying on my back or looking after Sean or doing anything,...
John Lennon wrote a song about how he’s not lazy
John’s “Watching the Wheels” includes the line “People think I’m lazy.” In a 1980 interview in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, John discussed the line. “I’m not lazy,” he said.
“I’ve done more in my life than most people would do in 10,” he added. “Absolutely! If I never did another damn thing! Even if I wasn’t just laying on my back or looking after Sean or doing anything,...
- 3/17/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The cover of John Lennon‘s Double Fantasy depicts him kissing Yoko Ono. The record’s title is not simply a reference to the two of them working together. John revealed the name has a spiritual meaning.
John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’ was inspired by John’s view of prayer
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John revealed his opinions about prayer. “The consciousness is, ‘Let’s see what we shall pray for together. Let’s make it stronger by picturing the same image, projecting the same image,'” he said. “And that is the secret. That is the secret. Because you can be together but projecting different things.”
Yoko said these dual projections were “double fantasies,” alluding to the title of their newest record. “Double fantasies at the same time,” John replied. “And...
John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’ was inspired by John’s view of prayer
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John revealed his opinions about prayer. “The consciousness is, ‘Let’s see what we shall pray for together. Let’s make it stronger by picturing the same image, projecting the same image,'” he said. “And that is the secret. That is the secret. Because you can be together but projecting different things.”
Yoko said these dual projections were “double fantasies,” alluding to the title of their newest record. “Double fantasies at the same time,” John replied. “And...
- 3/6/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon‘s “Give Peace a Chance” has some odd lyrics, but its overall message seems pretty straightforward. Leave it to Yoko Ono to make things a little more avant-garde! She had an unusual interpretation of the song. She also revealed her personal philosophy.
Yoko Ono felt John Lennon’s ‘Give Peace a Chance’ was about the future
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John said he and Yoko wanted “Give Peace a Chance” to help people imagine a better future. “I think it’s not so much we, if you meant the two of us, but all of us are part of the future,” Yoko interjected. “The future is already within us. I think that the world is going around and is alive because some people really know that whatever they think really happens.
Yoko Ono felt John Lennon’s ‘Give Peace a Chance’ was about the future
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John said he and Yoko wanted “Give Peace a Chance” to help people imagine a better future. “I think it’s not so much we, if you meant the two of us, but all of us are part of the future,” Yoko interjected. “The future is already within us. I think that the world is going around and is alive because some people really know that whatever they think really happens.
- 3/5/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon gave one of the most renowned Playboy interviews of all time. The interview is partly famous because the “Imagine” singer died shortly after giving it and partly because it’s incredible. Of course, John often dismissed his great projects. Here’s a look at what he thought of the interview and why the interview continues to have relevance for Beatles fans and fans of rock ‘n’ roll in general.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono had the same reaction to John’s final Playboy interview
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980 conducted by David Sheff. In the book’s epilogue, Sheff discusses talking with John after the interview. “I spoke to him once on the telephone after that,” he said. “I called a number within The Dakota when the main telephones were out. John never answered the telephone,...
John Lennon and Yoko Ono had the same reaction to John’s final Playboy interview
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980 conducted by David Sheff. In the book’s epilogue, Sheff discusses talking with John after the interview. “I spoke to him once on the telephone after that,” he said. “I called a number within The Dakota when the main telephones were out. John never answered the telephone,...
- 2/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon patted himself on the back for taking care of his son, Sean Ono Lennon. However, the “Instant Karma!” star felt one of his albums caused Sean to gain weight. In retrospect, Sean felt the album had major musical problems. However, he was a fan of one of the hits from the record.
John Lennon said his son gained weight during the production of ‘Double Fantasy’
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John referred to himself as a “housewife” for taking care of Sean while Yoko took care of the couple’s finances. John was asked if his role as a caregiver was a lark.
“No, it wasn’t a lark,” the “Imagine” singer replied. “The serious intent was to orchestrate what went into the baby’s mind and body on a full-time...
John Lennon said his son gained weight during the production of ‘Double Fantasy’
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono features an interview from 1980. In it, John referred to himself as a “housewife” for taking care of Sean while Yoko took care of the couple’s finances. John was asked if his role as a caregiver was a lark.
“No, it wasn’t a lark,” the “Imagine” singer replied. “The serious intent was to orchestrate what went into the baby’s mind and body on a full-time...
- 1/27/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Yoko Ono said her relationship with John Lennon was “a long roller-coaster.” Yoko said she and the “Imagine” singer giggled often while they were making two of his albums. One of those albums became a tremendous success. The other only produced one hit.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono had a great time making ‘Double Fantasy’ and ‘Milk and ‘Honey’
David Sheff interviewed John and Yoko in 1980. His interview appeared in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. In a 2020 introduction to the book, he discussed meeting up with Yoko long after John’s death.
“Years later, I reminisced with her about that time,” Sheff wrote. “She still got teary-eyed over John, though she had a full and productive life again. When we talked about that summer, she got a big smile. “‘The making of Double Fantasy and Milk and Honey was a great time for us,...
John Lennon and Yoko Ono had a great time making ‘Double Fantasy’ and ‘Milk and ‘Honey’
David Sheff interviewed John and Yoko in 1980. His interview appeared in the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. In a 2020 introduction to the book, he discussed meeting up with Yoko long after John’s death.
“Years later, I reminisced with her about that time,” Sheff wrote. “She still got teary-eyed over John, though she had a full and productive life again. When we talked about that summer, she got a big smile. “‘The making of Double Fantasy and Milk and Honey was a great time for us,...
- 12/10/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Yoko Ono hoped one of John Lennon‘s songs would hit No. 1 on the pop charts. Sadly, it reached that milestone after John’s tragic death. A reporter revealed what John was thinking in the final days of his life.
This John Lennon song was projected to become a No. 1 single
David Sheff famously interviewed John and Yoko Ono for Playboy in 1980. He wrote about the experience in a 2020 forward to the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. “I completed the interview in early September, and it was scheduled to be released in mid-December,” he said. “When, on December 6, [Playboy executive editor] Barry [Golson] got a hot-off-the-press advance copy of the magazine, he messengered it to The Dakota [Apartments, where John and Yoko lived].
“John and Yoko called me in Los Angeles the next day,” Sheff added. “Yoko was pleased with the interview, and she reported they were thrilled that the first single from Double Fantasy,...
This John Lennon song was projected to become a No. 1 single
David Sheff famously interviewed John and Yoko Ono for Playboy in 1980. He wrote about the experience in a 2020 forward to the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. “I completed the interview in early September, and it was scheduled to be released in mid-December,” he said. “When, on December 6, [Playboy executive editor] Barry [Golson] got a hot-off-the-press advance copy of the magazine, he messengered it to The Dakota [Apartments, where John and Yoko lived].
“John and Yoko called me in Los Angeles the next day,” Sheff added. “Yoko was pleased with the interview, and she reported they were thrilled that the first single from Double Fantasy,...
- 12/9/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Years before John Lennon’s death, a psychic warned him he would be shot while in America. His first wife, Cynthia Lennon, said this premonition hung over him while The Beatles toured. According to a friend, this continued to concern him in the final days of his life. Producer Jack Douglas said Lennon seemed to know that his life would end soon.
John Lennon seemed concerned about his death, said a friend
Douglas was one of the last people to see Lennon alive. He worked as a producer on Lennon’s final album, Double Fantasy, and they became friends. According to Douglas, Lennon occasionally brought up his impending death.
‘Double Fantasy’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
“He spoke about death every once in a while,” Douglas told People. “He would say things like, ‘I might be gone soon.’ He would say, ‘When I die, it’s going to be bigger than Elvis.
John Lennon seemed concerned about his death, said a friend
Douglas was one of the last people to see Lennon alive. He worked as a producer on Lennon’s final album, Double Fantasy, and they became friends. According to Douglas, Lennon occasionally brought up his impending death.
‘Double Fantasy’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
“He spoke about death every once in a while,” Douglas told People. “He would say things like, ‘I might be gone soon.’ He would say, ‘When I die, it’s going to be bigger than Elvis.
- 12/7/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Classic rock is so pervasive that it influenced artists who don’t make rock music in any way, shape, or form. John Lennon’s songs generally weren’t as sentimental as Celine Dion’s. However, one of John’s later tracks is so emotional that it works in Dion’s hands. Her version did significantly better in the United States than the original.
John Lennon wrote 1 of his songs for his son, Sean Ono Lennon
Dion and John might appear to be polar opposites as artists. Regardless, John was a balladeer at times. His last album, Double Fantasy, includes the ballad “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy).” Dion later covered the tune during the early 2000s.
In 2020, David Sheff contributed an essay to the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Sheff discussed hearing John sing the tune for his son, Sean Ono Lennon.
John Lennon wrote 1 of his songs for his son, Sean Ono Lennon
Dion and John might appear to be polar opposites as artists. Regardless, John was a balladeer at times. His last album, Double Fantasy, includes the ballad “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy).” Dion later covered the tune during the early 2000s.
In 2020, David Sheff contributed an essay to the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Sheff discussed hearing John sing the tune for his son, Sean Ono Lennon.
- 12/7/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon had hits over and over and over again. But he didn’t think always hitting the top 10 was a good long-term goal. He said part of the reason he felt this way was because he was “34 going on 60.”
John Lennon felt whether he had top 10 hits ‘was a moot point’ in 1975
John was one of the most popular singers who ever lived. He also made a lot of music that just wasn’t commercial, from the avant-garde soundscape of Untitled Music No. 1: Two Virgins to the screaming sadness of “Mother.” John felt that always being accessible would hurt his work.
During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed a personal revelation. “I’ve come to learn something big this past year,” he said. “I cannot let the top 10 dominate my art. If my worth is only to be judged by whether I’m in the top 10 or not,...
John Lennon felt whether he had top 10 hits ‘was a moot point’ in 1975
John was one of the most popular singers who ever lived. He also made a lot of music that just wasn’t commercial, from the avant-garde soundscape of Untitled Music No. 1: Two Virgins to the screaming sadness of “Mother.” John felt that always being accessible would hurt his work.
During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed a personal revelation. “I’ve come to learn something big this past year,” he said. “I cannot let the top 10 dominate my art. If my worth is only to be judged by whether I’m in the top 10 or not,...
- 11/9/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon said he wanted to be like The Ronettes’ Ronnie Spector or The Chiffons when he recorded one of his albums. He worked on the record with a musical genius who was arguably the most famous producer of all time. The record gave us one of John’s most famous and lovely covers.
John Lennon wanted to be like The Ronettes’ Ronnie Spector when he made ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’
During a 1975 interview with Spin, John said he started transitioning from a political activist to a regular musician with the release of his album Mind Games. He decided he wanted to have some fun with his next release by singing a collection of rock ‘n’ roll songs.
“I don’t even wanna be the producer,” he said. “I’ll do it with Phil Spector. ‘Cause I’ve worked with him before. It took me three weeks to talk him into...
John Lennon wanted to be like The Ronettes’ Ronnie Spector when he made ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’
During a 1975 interview with Spin, John said he started transitioning from a political activist to a regular musician with the release of his album Mind Games. He decided he wanted to have some fun with his next release by singing a collection of rock ‘n’ roll songs.
“I don’t even wanna be the producer,” he said. “I’ll do it with Phil Spector. ‘Cause I’ve worked with him before. It took me three weeks to talk him into...
- 11/9/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Sometimes, The Beatles paid tribute to people in odd ways. One of John Lennon’s solo albums was jinxed, according to the “Imagine” singer himself. He also decided to dedicate the album to Yoko Ono. Love or hate that record, it gave us one of John’s most beloved ballads.
1 of John Lennon’s solo albums was composed of 1950s and 1960s cover songs
In 1975, John released an album of 1950s and 1960s covers called Rock ‘n’ Roll. During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed the record. “It started in ’73 with [producer] Phil [Spector] and fell apart,” he said.
“I ended up as part of mad drunk scenes in Los Angeles and I finally finished it off on me own” he added. “And there was still problems with it up to the minute it came out. I can’t begin to say, it’s just barmy, there’s a jinx on that album.
1 of John Lennon’s solo albums was composed of 1950s and 1960s cover songs
In 1975, John released an album of 1950s and 1960s covers called Rock ‘n’ Roll. During a 1975 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed the record. “It started in ’73 with [producer] Phil [Spector] and fell apart,” he said.
“I ended up as part of mad drunk scenes in Los Angeles and I finally finished it off on me own” he added. “And there was still problems with it up to the minute it came out. I can’t begin to say, it’s just barmy, there’s a jinx on that album.
- 11/5/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon‘s “Imagine” (1971) is his most famous ballad — but it wasn’t his last. One of his later ballads has a lot in common with “Imagine” musically. However, the two songs have very different meanings. One of John’s sons said that the later song is about the real meaning of life.
John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ has the same riff and soundscape as his song ‘Watching the Wheels’
Perhaps the most famous part of “Imagine” is its gentle opening riff. It’s the perfect way for John to sugarcoat his controversial messages about religion, countries, and property. A similar set of piano chords showed up at the beginning of John’s “Watching the Wheels” (1980).
“Watching the Wheels” has a similar overall vibe to “Imagine.” Considering “Imagine” was one of John’s few solo singles to reach the Billboard Hot 100 top 5 in the 1970s, it makes sense that he would...
John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ has the same riff and soundscape as his song ‘Watching the Wheels’
Perhaps the most famous part of “Imagine” is its gentle opening riff. It’s the perfect way for John to sugarcoat his controversial messages about religion, countries, and property. A similar set of piano chords showed up at the beginning of John’s “Watching the Wheels” (1980).
“Watching the Wheels” has a similar overall vibe to “Imagine.” Considering “Imagine” was one of John’s few solo singles to reach the Billboard Hot 100 top 5 in the 1970s, it makes sense that he would...
- 11/3/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Any good classic rock star knew how to go against type from time to time. One of the songs on John Lennon’s last album included a gospel choir. In an interview about the song, John discussed why Yoko Ono cried during the session for it and what he thought about religion at the time.
John Lennon put a song sung by Yoko Ono featuring gospel choirs on his final album
John’s album Double Fantasy includes a sung by Yoko Ono called “Hard Times Are Over.” That track features a performance by two gospel choirs : the Benny Cummings Singers and the Kings Temple Choir. During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John revealed how “Hard Times Are Over” came together in the studio.
“At the end of the session, they thanked God, they thanked our co-producer; Jack Douglas, they thanked us for bringing them the work, and we thanked them,...
John Lennon put a song sung by Yoko Ono featuring gospel choirs on his final album
John’s album Double Fantasy includes a sung by Yoko Ono called “Hard Times Are Over.” That track features a performance by two gospel choirs : the Benny Cummings Singers and the Kings Temple Choir. During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John revealed how “Hard Times Are Over” came together in the studio.
“At the end of the session, they thanked God, they thanked our co-producer; Jack Douglas, they thanked us for bringing them the work, and we thanked them,...
- 10/21/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Journalists didn’t always understand classic rock stars. One of John Lennon’s albums had a title that the press misinterpreted as being sexual. John’s son, Sean Ono Lennon, revealed why that album was so important to him.
John Lennon read many false reports about his last album
During a 1980 interview from the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, John discussed his most recent album, Double Fantasy. The album was a collaboration with Yoko which featured a lot of her vocals. “It’s not a sex fantasy, as a lot of the stories in the press are saying, ‘They’re putting their sex fantasies down on a record! Ohmigosh!'” John said. “Yeah, I’ve read that. I read everything.” Contrary to the buzz surrounding it, Double Fantasy is an album about wholesome domestic bliss that’s barely sexual at all.
John Lennon read many false reports about his last album
During a 1980 interview from the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, John discussed his most recent album, Double Fantasy. The album was a collaboration with Yoko which featured a lot of her vocals. “It’s not a sex fantasy, as a lot of the stories in the press are saying, ‘They’re putting their sex fantasies down on a record! Ohmigosh!'” John said. “Yeah, I’ve read that. I read everything.” Contrary to the buzz surrounding it, Double Fantasy is an album about wholesome domestic bliss that’s barely sexual at all.
- 10/20/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Near the end of his life, John Lennon said he once acted as Ike Turner to Yoko Ono’s Tina Turner. He revealed that some of his fellow musicians weren’t too enthused with this move. Around the same time, he also said his music was different from Ike & Tina Turner’s.
John Lennon said he was once like Ike Tuner and Yoko Ono was an avant-garde Tina Turner
During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed working with Yoko. “You know, the first show we did together was at Cambridge University in 1969,” he recalled. “She had already been booked to do a concert with some jazz musicians. That was the first time I had appeared un-Beatled. I had an amp and played feedback, and people got very upset because they recognized me: ‘What’s he doing with you?’ It’s always, ‘Stay in your bag.'”
Yoko didn’t...
John Lennon said he was once like Ike Tuner and Yoko Ono was an avant-garde Tina Turner
During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John discussed working with Yoko. “You know, the first show we did together was at Cambridge University in 1969,” he recalled. “She had already been booked to do a concert with some jazz musicians. That was the first time I had appeared un-Beatled. I had an amp and played feedback, and people got very upset because they recognized me: ‘What’s he doing with you?’ It’s always, ‘Stay in your bag.'”
Yoko didn’t...
- 10/20/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
It doesn’t take a genius to hear that John Lennon‘s “(Just Like) Starting Over” was inspired by Elvis Presley’s music. During an interview, John named the Elvis song and the Roy Orbison song that inspired “(Just Like) Starting Over.” He also revealed how much he was indebted to both artists.
John Lennon’s ‘(Just Like) Starting Over’ paid homage to Elvis Presley and ‘Only the Lonely’
During a 1980 Rolling Stone interview recorded in the book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon, John discussed the genesis of “(Just Like) Starting Over.” “All through the taping of ‘Starting Over,’ I was calling what I was doing ‘Elvis Orbison:’ ‘I want you I need only the lonely,'” he said. His words were a clear callback to Elvis’ “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You” and Roy Orbison’s “Only the Lonely,” two songs that influenced “(Just Like) Starting Over.
John Lennon’s ‘(Just Like) Starting Over’ paid homage to Elvis Presley and ‘Only the Lonely’
During a 1980 Rolling Stone interview recorded in the book Lennon on Lennon: Conversations With John Lennon, John discussed the genesis of “(Just Like) Starting Over.” “All through the taping of ‘Starting Over,’ I was calling what I was doing ‘Elvis Orbison:’ ‘I want you I need only the lonely,'” he said. His words were a clear callback to Elvis’ “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You” and Roy Orbison’s “Only the Lonely,” two songs that influenced “(Just Like) Starting Over.
- 10/18/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The music industry works in mysterious ways. John Lennon’s tragic death in 1980 might have catapulted one of his songs to No. 1 in the United States. The song in question was a tribute to the early rockers Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison.
A John Lennon song hit No. 1 the week after he died
There was a five-year gap between John’s 1975 covers album Rock ‘n’ Roll and his final album, Double Fantasy. The lead single from Double Fantasy was “(Just Like) Starting Over.” That gap would have led to plenty of anticipation for new music from the “Imagine” singer.
According to Stereogum, “(Just Like) Starting Over” was No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 the last day of John’s life. The following week, it hit No. 1. Stereogum theorizes “(Just Like) Starting Over” would have climbed to the top even if John had lived. After all, many Paul McCartney songs hit No.
A John Lennon song hit No. 1 the week after he died
There was a five-year gap between John’s 1975 covers album Rock ‘n’ Roll and his final album, Double Fantasy. The lead single from Double Fantasy was “(Just Like) Starting Over.” That gap would have led to plenty of anticipation for new music from the “Imagine” singer.
According to Stereogum, “(Just Like) Starting Over” was No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 the last day of John’s life. The following week, it hit No. 1. Stereogum theorizes “(Just Like) Starting Over” would have climbed to the top even if John had lived. After all, many Paul McCartney songs hit No.
- 10/17/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon‘s Double Fantasy gave fans a peek into his personal life and his marriage to Yoko Ono. One of the more angelic tunes on the record was inspired by horses. Interestingly, the incident that influenced the tune happened on John’s birthday.
1 song from John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’ was both sincere and a put-on
John’s final album, Double Fantasy, was a collaboration with Yoko. In it, John wrote and sang some of the songs while Yoko wrote and sang others. “Yes, I’m Your Angel” was written and performed by Yoko.
During a 1980 interview from the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Yoko discussed the tune. “Oh, it’s a big put-on thing,” she said. “But at the same time, the lyrics are really not a put-on. It’s presented in a put-on way.
“One night, John...
1 song from John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’ was both sincere and a put-on
John’s final album, Double Fantasy, was a collaboration with Yoko. In it, John wrote and sang some of the songs while Yoko wrote and sang others. “Yes, I’m Your Angel” was written and performed by Yoko.
During a 1980 interview from the book All We Are Saying: The Last Major interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Yoko discussed the tune. “Oh, it’s a big put-on thing,” she said. “But at the same time, the lyrics are really not a put-on. It’s presented in a put-on way.
“One night, John...
- 10/17/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Nobody knew how to add lyrical layers to a classic rock song quite like The Beatles. John Lennon’s “Woman” isn’t just about women, it’s also about John’s view of success. Audiences in the United States and the United Kingdom had an incredibly positive reaction to the song and its parent album.
John Lennon interpreted the lyrics of ‘Woman’ and ‘Working Class Hero’ for fans
In his song “Woman,” John thanks a woman for showing him “the meaning of success.” During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John elaborated on that lyric. “I’m not saying success as a famous artist and star is no good, and I’m not saying it’s great,” he said. “The thing about the ‘Working Class Hero’ song that nobody ever got right was that it was supposed to be sardonic — it had nothing to do with socialism, it had to do...
John Lennon interpreted the lyrics of ‘Woman’ and ‘Working Class Hero’ for fans
In his song “Woman,” John thanks a woman for showing him “the meaning of success.” During a 1980 interview with Rolling Stone, John elaborated on that lyric. “I’m not saying success as a famous artist and star is no good, and I’m not saying it’s great,” he said. “The thing about the ‘Working Class Hero’ song that nobody ever got right was that it was supposed to be sardonic — it had nothing to do with socialism, it had to do...
- 10/1/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
John Lennon said he inspired rumors even when he wasn’t doing anything for publicity. He discussed why he didn’t release an album for five years. John compared his situation to that of a famous movie star.
John Lennon was the subject of numerous false rumors. For example, he recounted some gossip about his personal hygiene that he thought was funny. Notably, the “Imagine” singer said he inspired more press the less he interacted with the media.
John Lennon found humor in a rumor about his hair and fingernails
During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, John discussed how the press treated him and Yoko Ono. “The funny thing is when we were doing the Bed-Ins and all the other strange John and Yoko things in the ’60s, people kept saying, ‘Well, they’ll do anything for publicity,'” he recalled. “But the stories continued even...
John Lennon said he inspired rumors even when he wasn’t doing anything for publicity. He discussed why he didn’t release an album for five years. John compared his situation to that of a famous movie star.
John Lennon was the subject of numerous false rumors. For example, he recounted some gossip about his personal hygiene that he thought was funny. Notably, the “Imagine” singer said he inspired more press the less he interacted with the media.
John Lennon found humor in a rumor about his hair and fingernails
During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, John discussed how the press treated him and Yoko Ono. “The funny thing is when we were doing the Bed-Ins and all the other strange John and Yoko things in the ’60s, people kept saying, ‘Well, they’ll do anything for publicity,'” he recalled. “But the stories continued even...
- 8/7/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Yoko Ono once said John Lennon’s “(Just Like) Starting Over” was a “beautiful” response to hard times. She felt a positive “new age” was on the horizon. Yoko hoped the a between men and women could be mended.
Yoko Ono said one of John Lennon‘s “(Just Like) Starting Over” was a message to all women. “(Just Like) Starting Over” made Yoko feel like crying. In addition, she said the tune had themes of renewal following the horrors of the 1970s.
Yoko Ono felt John Lennon’s ‘(Just Like) Starting Over’ had social commentary
John collaborated with Yoko on his final album, Double Fantasy. During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, she discussed the most successful track from that record. “I think John’s song, ‘Starting Over,’ is so beautiful,” she revealed. “It’s a personal message to me, but it’s also like all men saying to all women,...
Yoko Ono once said John Lennon’s “(Just Like) Starting Over” was a “beautiful” response to hard times. She felt a positive “new age” was on the horizon. Yoko hoped the a between men and women could be mended.
Yoko Ono said one of John Lennon‘s “(Just Like) Starting Over” was a message to all women. “(Just Like) Starting Over” made Yoko feel like crying. In addition, she said the tune had themes of renewal following the horrors of the 1970s.
Yoko Ono felt John Lennon’s ‘(Just Like) Starting Over’ had social commentary
John collaborated with Yoko on his final album, Double Fantasy. During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, she discussed the most successful track from that record. “I think John’s song, ‘Starting Over,’ is so beautiful,” she revealed. “It’s a personal message to me, but it’s also like all men saying to all women,...
- 8/4/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Some John Lennon songs and Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” sound like the same era. John compared Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” to tunes by an early rocker. He also discussed the influence of 1950s music.
Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” inspired John Lennon songs. The former Beatle explained why Queen inspired him to start making music again. Notably, Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” was a bigger hit than John’s No. 1 song from that period.
Some John Lennon songs and Queen’s ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ sound like the 1950s
John released his final album, Double Fantasy, in 1980, five years after his previous album, Rock ‘n’ Roll. During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, John discussed new music. “I love the music of today,” he explained. “It’s the best period since the 1960s: The Pretenders, The B-52’s,...
Some John Lennon songs and Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” sound like the same era. John compared Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” to tunes by an early rocker. He also discussed the influence of 1950s music.
Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” inspired John Lennon songs. The former Beatle explained why Queen inspired him to start making music again. Notably, Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” was a bigger hit than John’s No. 1 song from that period.
Some John Lennon songs and Queen’s ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ sound like the 1950s
John released his final album, Double Fantasy, in 1980, five years after his previous album, Rock ‘n’ Roll. During a 1980 interview with the Los Angeles Times, John discussed new music. “I love the music of today,” he explained. “It’s the best period since the 1960s: The Pretenders, The B-52’s,...
- 8/4/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney and John Lennon were an incredibly successful songwriting duo. While the Lennon-McCartney name is attached to hundreds of Beatles songs, many were primarily written by either Lennon or McCartney. Lennon wrote plenty of iconic tracks for the band, and McCartney revealed which of his friend’s songs from The Beatles is his favorite.
Paul McCartney said ‘Julia’ is his favorite Beatles song by John Lennon
Lennon had a tragic childhood while growing up in Liverpool. His father abandoned him at a very young age, and his mother was deemed unfit to take care of him. He did have contact with his mother, Julia, but he lived with his Aunt Mimi. In 1958, his mother was struck by a car and killed. Lennon’s complicated emotions toward his parents, especially his mother, often manifested in his music.
He wrote a few songs about his mother, such as “Julia” for The...
Paul McCartney said ‘Julia’ is his favorite Beatles song by John Lennon
Lennon had a tragic childhood while growing up in Liverpool. His father abandoned him at a very young age, and his mother was deemed unfit to take care of him. He did have contact with his mother, Julia, but he lived with his Aunt Mimi. In 1958, his mother was struck by a car and killed. Lennon’s complicated emotions toward his parents, especially his mother, often manifested in his music.
He wrote a few songs about his mother, such as “Julia” for The...
- 7/16/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Weeknd’s controversial, 5-episode show The Idol is over. And with it, viewers of the HBO series got to hear Troye Sivan reimagine “My Sweet Lord,” the beloved, guitar-backed 1970 song by Beatle George Harrison, during the final episode.
Sivan’s sweet vocals hum and echo over a haunting, synthy organ as he sings the Harrison lyrics: “Really want to go with you/Really want to show you Lord/But it won’t take long, my Lord.” The track is very Xo-esque, thanks to its production by Mike Dean and the Weeknd himself.
Sivan’s sweet vocals hum and echo over a haunting, synthy organ as he sings the Harrison lyrics: “Really want to go with you/Really want to show you Lord/But it won’t take long, my Lord.” The track is very Xo-esque, thanks to its production by Mike Dean and the Weeknd himself.
- 7/3/2023
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
Blondie’s “Rapture” is an early example of a classic rock band embracing hip-hop. It stopped a classic John Lennon song from hitting No. 1. John’s tragic death might’ve given his song more attention.
Blondie’s ‘Rapture’ overshadowed John Lennon’s ‘Woman’
“Rapture” is often considered one of the earliest rap songs to hit the mainstream. During a 2012 interview with Westchester Magazine, Harry said the song was an example of hip-hop rather than rap. “At that time, rapping was all done to loops — they would take loops from Chic and from this and that, and they would make scratches and do all that with the turntables,” he said. “So, it was a different animal. They called it hip-hop.”
Harry was asked if she considered hip-hop a lifestyle rather than just a genre. “You know, it’s up for grabs, I think,” she said. “It’s probably the same idea that happened with punk music.
Blondie’s ‘Rapture’ overshadowed John Lennon’s ‘Woman’
“Rapture” is often considered one of the earliest rap songs to hit the mainstream. During a 2012 interview with Westchester Magazine, Harry said the song was an example of hip-hop rather than rap. “At that time, rapping was all done to loops — they would take loops from Chic and from this and that, and they would make scratches and do all that with the turntables,” he said. “So, it was a different animal. They called it hip-hop.”
Harry was asked if she considered hip-hop a lifestyle rather than just a genre. “You know, it’s up for grabs, I think,” she said. “It’s probably the same idea that happened with punk music.
- 7/3/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
HBO announced that this week’s episode of The Idol will be the last of its first season.
It was originally announced that The Idol would have six episodes in the first season, but this changed when Sam Levinson took over as the director.
Fans did not hide their disappointment and expressed their opinions on social media.
One tweeted, “I thought it was gonna be 6 episodes, not 5?? What happened???”
I thought it was gonna be 6 episodes, not 5?? What happened???
— Gotchick (@LolitaonTop) June 26, 2023
Other complaints noted that the storyline hasn’t developed enough for the season to end.
This needs 10 episodes…story hasn’t gone anywhere.
— brandnewbrodie (@brandnewbrodie) June 26, 2023
In 2021, before the show came out, HBO announced that this series would be six episodes long. This was back when Amy Seimetz was the director and Joe Epstein was the showrunner.
After conflicts with Levinson, Seimetz decided to leave the series even...
It was originally announced that The Idol would have six episodes in the first season, but this changed when Sam Levinson took over as the director.
Fans did not hide their disappointment and expressed their opinions on social media.
One tweeted, “I thought it was gonna be 6 episodes, not 5?? What happened???”
I thought it was gonna be 6 episodes, not 5?? What happened???
— Gotchick (@LolitaonTop) June 26, 2023
Other complaints noted that the storyline hasn’t developed enough for the season to end.
This needs 10 episodes…story hasn’t gone anywhere.
— brandnewbrodie (@brandnewbrodie) June 26, 2023
In 2021, before the show came out, HBO announced that this series would be six episodes long. This was back when Amy Seimetz was the director and Joe Epstein was the showrunner.
After conflicts with Levinson, Seimetz decided to leave the series even...
- 6/27/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is defending his performance on the new HBO series The Idol after it receives backlash due to its extreme content, saying people will understand it with time.
The show premiered on June 4 and the release of the second episode, “Double Fantasy,” has received an extensive amount of negative reviews because of its sexually explicit scenes.
The series focuses on Lily-Rose Depp’s character, Jocelyn, a pop star who has a nervous breakdown, which leads her to cancel her tour. She decides to go on a journey of self-healing when she meets Tedros, played by the Weeknd, and starts a relationship with him. The show focuses on their relationship and has multiple explicit scenes.
Critics have called the series “torture porn,” and it has received an overwhelming number of negative reviews. Variety even went as far as to say that Tesfaye’s acting is “nonexistent.
The show premiered on June 4 and the release of the second episode, “Double Fantasy,” has received an extensive amount of negative reviews because of its sexually explicit scenes.
The series focuses on Lily-Rose Depp’s character, Jocelyn, a pop star who has a nervous breakdown, which leads her to cancel her tour. She decides to go on a journey of self-healing when she meets Tedros, played by the Weeknd, and starts a relationship with him. The show focuses on their relationship and has multiple explicit scenes.
Critics have called the series “torture porn,” and it has received an overwhelming number of negative reviews. Variety even went as far as to say that Tesfaye’s acting is “nonexistent.
- 6/25/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
The Weeknd, Lily-Rose Depp, and Blackpink’s Jennie have joined forces for “One of the Girls,” a new song for their HBO series The Idol. Check it out below.
With a laid-back tempo and reverb-washed synth melodies, “Once of the Girls” is musically similar to other recent releases by The Weeknd, and features some on-the-nose lyrics for the show’s controversial content, like “I love when you’re submissive/ You love it when I break skin,” and the Depp-sung chorus: “My kind of love/ Push me and choke me ’til I pass out.” A highlight is the bridge, sung by Jennie, whose light, airy vocals float over the beat, tastefully bringing the track to the release of its final chorus. Listen to the song below.
Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Depp co-star in The Idol, a drama meant to satirize the entertainment industry through their portrayal of a club owner...
With a laid-back tempo and reverb-washed synth melodies, “Once of the Girls” is musically similar to other recent releases by The Weeknd, and features some on-the-nose lyrics for the show’s controversial content, like “I love when you’re submissive/ You love it when I break skin,” and the Depp-sung chorus: “My kind of love/ Push me and choke me ’til I pass out.” A highlight is the bridge, sung by Jennie, whose light, airy vocals float over the beat, tastefully bringing the track to the release of its final chorus. Listen to the song below.
Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Depp co-star in The Idol, a drama meant to satirize the entertainment industry through their portrayal of a club owner...
- 6/23/2023
- by Carys Anderson and Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
Tl;Dr:
John Lennon made Double Fantasy after he heard one song by The B-52’s. One member of the band took a while to accept that this happened. The album was more popular in the United States than it was in the United Kingdom.
John Lennon‘s Double Fantasy (1980) was inspired by The B-52’s. One of the members of the band discussed how exactly they may have inspired the former Beatle. In addition, she revealed what she thought of John as an artist.
1 of The B-52’s was ‘blown away’ that the band inspired John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’
A 2018 People article says John heard The B-52’s single “Rock Lobster,” which was influenced by the songs of Yoko Ono. Subsequently, he decided to get to work on new music. John’s next album, Double Fantasy, became his first album in five years and his first album...
John Lennon made Double Fantasy after he heard one song by The B-52’s. One member of the band took a while to accept that this happened. The album was more popular in the United States than it was in the United Kingdom.
John Lennon‘s Double Fantasy (1980) was inspired by The B-52’s. One of the members of the band discussed how exactly they may have inspired the former Beatle. In addition, she revealed what she thought of John as an artist.
1 of The B-52’s was ‘blown away’ that the band inspired John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’
A 2018 People article says John heard The B-52’s single “Rock Lobster,” which was influenced by the songs of Yoko Ono. Subsequently, he decided to get to work on new music. John’s next album, Double Fantasy, became his first album in five years and his first album...
- 6/21/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
As a founding member of The Beatles, John Lennon became one of Liverpool’s biggest success stories. As the band rose to fame, though, many other local acts also established themselves. In the early 1960s, Liverpool was a hub of music. One of the local acts to find success were the Liverbirds, the U.K.’s first all-woman band. Lennon was not a fan of the group. He made misogynistic comments, though this only strengthened their resolve.
John Lennon made misogynistic comments to a Liverpool band
In the early 1960s, The Liverbirds traveled to Hamburg, just as The Beatles previously did. The band swiftly found success in Germany. With these performances, The Liverbirds wanted to become “the female Beatles.”
“We wanted to be the female Beatles, and we wanted to do it first,” band member Mary Dostal told The Guardian. “Everybody was really curious at first; people were like, ‘I...
John Lennon made misogynistic comments to a Liverpool band
In the early 1960s, The Liverbirds traveled to Hamburg, just as The Beatles previously did. The band swiftly found success in Germany. With these performances, The Liverbirds wanted to become “the female Beatles.”
“We wanted to be the female Beatles, and we wanted to do it first,” band member Mary Dostal told The Guardian. “Everybody was really curious at first; people were like, ‘I...
- 6/16/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
John Lennon said he changed the name of a song from Double Fantasy. His claim was not exactly true. John and Yoko Ono discussed the possibility of putting negative messages in their songs.
John Lennon was worried a song from Double Fantasy might come true. Subsequently, he said he changed the title of the tune. In the end, the track still became a self-fulfilling prophecy in the worst way.
The story of ‘I’m Losing You’ from John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono includes an interview from 1980. In it, John discussed a song from Double Fantasy. He said the tune was initially titled “Losing You” but he renamed it “(Afraid I’m) Losing You.” He was worried that the original name of the tune could become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
John’s comment doesn...
John Lennon said he changed the name of a song from Double Fantasy. His claim was not exactly true. John and Yoko Ono discussed the possibility of putting negative messages in their songs.
John Lennon was worried a song from Double Fantasy might come true. Subsequently, he said he changed the title of the tune. In the end, the track still became a self-fulfilling prophecy in the worst way.
The story of ‘I’m Losing You’ from John Lennon’s ‘Double Fantasy’
The book All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono includes an interview from 1980. In it, John discussed a song from Double Fantasy. He said the tune was initially titled “Losing You” but he renamed it “(Afraid I’m) Losing You.” He was worried that the original name of the tune could become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
John’s comment doesn...
- 6/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Spoiler Alert: This story contains minor spoilers from the second episode of HBO’s “The Idol,” titled “Double Fantasy,” now streaming on Max.
If that sex scene at the end of Episode 2 of HBO’s “The Idol” made you uncomfortable, then Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye accomplished his goal.
Tesfaye, who co-created “The Idol” with “Euphoria’s” Sam Levinson, spoke with GQ after the scene, which features his character Tedros verbally seducing pop star Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), sparked controversy online.
“There’s nothing sexy about it,” Tesfaye told GQ. “However you’re feeling watching that scene, whether it’s discomfort, or you feel gross, or you feel embarrassed for the characters. It’s all those emotions adding up to: this guy is in way over his head, this situation is one where he is not supposed to be here.”
In the scene, Jocelyn strips for Tedros on her bed as he...
If that sex scene at the end of Episode 2 of HBO’s “The Idol” made you uncomfortable, then Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye accomplished his goal.
Tesfaye, who co-created “The Idol” with “Euphoria’s” Sam Levinson, spoke with GQ after the scene, which features his character Tedros verbally seducing pop star Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), sparked controversy online.
“There’s nothing sexy about it,” Tesfaye told GQ. “However you’re feeling watching that scene, whether it’s discomfort, or you feel gross, or you feel embarrassed for the characters. It’s all those emotions adding up to: this guy is in way over his head, this situation is one where he is not supposed to be here.”
In the scene, Jocelyn strips for Tedros on her bed as he...
- 6/13/2023
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
The Idol, the new HBO show from Euphoria creator Sam Levinson, has been mired in controversy since its premiere at Cannes last month. Critics have accused the show of “sexual torture porn” and becoming the subject it was attempting to satirize.
Caution! Spoilers ahead!
The series follows a distressed pop star named Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), who attends a music video shoot that goes poorly. The episode tracks her emotional suffering due to the rigors of the entertainment industry. To drown her sorrows, she invites her love interest Tedros (The Weeknd), who is also a cult leader, and his followers to her house for a night of sex and drugs.
Compared to last week’s pilot episode, “Double Fantasy” ramps up the depravity, which has only furthered the mixed response to the series. The party is filled with graphic nudity as well as sexually explicit scenes. Many of the sexual interactions fixate on Tedros’ pleasure,...
Caution! Spoilers ahead!
The series follows a distressed pop star named Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp), who attends a music video shoot that goes poorly. The episode tracks her emotional suffering due to the rigors of the entertainment industry. To drown her sorrows, she invites her love interest Tedros (The Weeknd), who is also a cult leader, and his followers to her house for a night of sex and drugs.
Compared to last week’s pilot episode, “Double Fantasy” ramps up the depravity, which has only furthered the mixed response to the series. The party is filled with graphic nudity as well as sexually explicit scenes. Many of the sexual interactions fixate on Tedros’ pleasure,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Alex Nguyen
- Uinterview
Is buzz for The Idol slowly building…?
Though the early numbers for Episode 2 of the lurid HBO drama were a bit down week-to-week, delayed sampling of the series premiere seems to be picking up the pace.
More from TVLineWinning Time Season 2 Sets August Release Date -- Watch Teaser TrailerSuccession Star Kieran Culkin Sees a Grim Future for Roman After the Series Finale: 'He's Very Much Alone'Is Crowded Room Mom Casting Curious? Was Manifest Captain Saved? How Would You Fix The Idol? And More TV Qs!
Viewership for Episode 2, which was titled “Double Fantasy” (and which I have yet to watch,...
Though the early numbers for Episode 2 of the lurid HBO drama were a bit down week-to-week, delayed sampling of the series premiere seems to be picking up the pace.
More from TVLineWinning Time Season 2 Sets August Release Date -- Watch Teaser TrailerSuccession Star Kieran Culkin Sees a Grim Future for Roman After the Series Finale: 'He's Very Much Alone'Is Crowded Room Mom Casting Curious? Was Manifest Captain Saved? How Would You Fix The Idol? And More TV Qs!
Viewership for Episode 2, which was titled “Double Fantasy” (and which I have yet to watch,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Titled “Double Fantasy,” Episode 2 of “The Idol” brought in 800,000 viewers across HBO and Max on Sunday night.
This marks a 12% dip from the 913,000 viewers who tuned in to last week’s series premiere. Reported by Warner Bros. Discovery, these figures represent a combination of Nielsen’s measurement of linear viewing on HBO’s cable channel as well as Wbd’s own data regarding streams on Max.
According to Wbd, streaming of the episode through Sunday night was “nearly even” with that of the week before, meaning that the decrease in viewership happened largely on cable. Nielsen data shows that approximately 232,000 viewers watched Episode 1 on cable the night of its premiere, meaning that some 681,000 viewers streamed the episode. Therefore, if streaming remained even for Episode 2, it can be estimated that around 119,000 viewers watched it on cable.
But in better news for the series, Wbd also reports that Episode 1 has now reached...
This marks a 12% dip from the 913,000 viewers who tuned in to last week’s series premiere. Reported by Warner Bros. Discovery, these figures represent a combination of Nielsen’s measurement of linear viewing on HBO’s cable channel as well as Wbd’s own data regarding streams on Max.
According to Wbd, streaming of the episode through Sunday night was “nearly even” with that of the week before, meaning that the decrease in viewership happened largely on cable. Nielsen data shows that approximately 232,000 viewers watched Episode 1 on cable the night of its premiere, meaning that some 681,000 viewers streamed the episode. Therefore, if streaming remained even for Episode 2, it can be estimated that around 119,000 viewers watched it on cable.
But in better news for the series, Wbd also reports that Episode 1 has now reached...
- 6/12/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
In order to film Jocelyn’s big music video scene, Lily-Rose Depp had to spend “almost” four hours in hair. “The Idol” team revealed all the work Depp had to do to prepare for Episode 2 of the controversial HBO drama.
“Lily sat for almost four hours while all of those extensions were glued into her head because she had to dance for days,” Christopher Fulton, the head of the hair department, said in HBO’s recurring inside-the-episode segment, which you can watch above.
Most of “Double Fantasy” revolves around Jocelyn’s (Depp) latest music video. A routine performance turns into a high stakes battle for Jocelyn’s career as the directors, crew and managers surrounding her gauge whether she’s emotionally stable enough to keep performing. By the scene’s end, Jocelyn pushes herself far past her limits. Her feet and thighs are covered in blood and Jocelyn finishes the day nearly delusional,...
“Lily sat for almost four hours while all of those extensions were glued into her head because she had to dance for days,” Christopher Fulton, the head of the hair department, said in HBO’s recurring inside-the-episode segment, which you can watch above.
Most of “Double Fantasy” revolves around Jocelyn’s (Depp) latest music video. A routine performance turns into a high stakes battle for Jocelyn’s career as the directors, crew and managers surrounding her gauge whether she’s emotionally stable enough to keep performing. By the scene’s end, Jocelyn pushes herself far past her limits. Her feet and thighs are covered in blood and Jocelyn finishes the day nearly delusional,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
[Editor’s Note: The following review contains spoilers for “The Idol” Episode 2, “Double Fantasy.”]
Nikki (Jane Adams) doesn’t give the impression she likes to be “summoned.” Wearily walking through her client’s mansion, passing two framed records that are just lying against the barren wall, Nikki plops down next to her fellow handlers and immediately starts complaining: Why would Jocelyn (Lily Rose-Depp) change her single? “What about the sound we created for her?” Her mom’s dead? Who cares! “Mothers die.”
Meanwhile, Jocelyn is waiting upstairs. Nervous over the remix she made with Tedros Tedros (Able “The Weeknd” Tesfaye), she texts him, looking for a little support before facing the jackals downstairs. “Tried u earlier,” she types. “Call u after,” she concedes.
The version of “World Class Sinner” her team hears is hardly high-art. Extra breathy and with a jagged melody, it’s less suited for a car stereo or a night club than to privately play while...
Nikki (Jane Adams) doesn’t give the impression she likes to be “summoned.” Wearily walking through her client’s mansion, passing two framed records that are just lying against the barren wall, Nikki plops down next to her fellow handlers and immediately starts complaining: Why would Jocelyn (Lily Rose-Depp) change her single? “What about the sound we created for her?” Her mom’s dead? Who cares! “Mothers die.”
Meanwhile, Jocelyn is waiting upstairs. Nervous over the remix she made with Tedros Tedros (Able “The Weeknd” Tesfaye), she texts him, looking for a little support before facing the jackals downstairs. “Tried u earlier,” she types. “Call u after,” she concedes.
The version of “World Class Sinner” her team hears is hardly high-art. Extra breathy and with a jagged melody, it’s less suited for a car stereo or a night club than to privately play while...
- 6/12/2023
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
Spoiler Alert! This post contains details from Episode 2 of The Idol on HBO.
Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) is supposed to be preparing for her big comeback, but Episode 2 of HBO’s The Idol calls into question whether she’s ready to step back into the spotlight.
Episode 2, titled “Double Fantasy,” opens with Jocelyn trying to convince her team to release a different (and far more sexualized) version of her upcoming single “World Class Sinner” — one that she said felt more authentic but her manager shuts down the idea. Authentic or not, it’s not as commercial as the track they’ve already recorded. She reminds Jocelyn that she needs all the help she can get since she canceled her last tour due to a mental breakdown after she lost her mom to cancer. And anyway, they’re already prepared to shoot the music video for the song as it is. That...
Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) is supposed to be preparing for her big comeback, but Episode 2 of HBO’s The Idol calls into question whether she’s ready to step back into the spotlight.
Episode 2, titled “Double Fantasy,” opens with Jocelyn trying to convince her team to release a different (and far more sexualized) version of her upcoming single “World Class Sinner” — one that she said felt more authentic but her manager shuts down the idea. Authentic or not, it’s not as commercial as the track they’ve already recorded. She reminds Jocelyn that she needs all the help she can get since she canceled her last tour due to a mental breakdown after she lost her mom to cancer. And anyway, they’re already prepared to shoot the music video for the song as it is. That...
- 6/12/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This review contains spoilers from the second episode of HBO’s “The Idol,” titled “Double Fantasy,” now streaming on Max.
On “The Idol,” Jocelyn just wants to be perfect. If only the show around her had such clarity of vision.
As played by Lily-Rose Depp, the pop star Jocelyn spends part of the series’ second episode pushing herself through endless retakes of a music video shoot — long past the point at which the thing seems as good as it’ll ever be — in order to attain the crispness and clarity that lie just out of reach in her mind. Those sequences, with Aronofsky-movie-ready shots of bloody feet and the intriguing chatter among Jocelyn underlings that had been a highlight of the show’s first episode, create, for a time, a sense of Jocelyn’s reality, and what she has at stake.
The credibility problems of “The Idol,” such as they are,...
On “The Idol,” Jocelyn just wants to be perfect. If only the show around her had such clarity of vision.
As played by Lily-Rose Depp, the pop star Jocelyn spends part of the series’ second episode pushing herself through endless retakes of a music video shoot — long past the point at which the thing seems as good as it’ll ever be — in order to attain the crispness and clarity that lie just out of reach in her mind. Those sequences, with Aronofsky-movie-ready shots of bloody feet and the intriguing chatter among Jocelyn underlings that had been a highlight of the show’s first episode, create, for a time, a sense of Jocelyn’s reality, and what she has at stake.
The credibility problems of “The Idol,” such as they are,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This story contains spoilers from the second episode of HBO’s “The Idol,” titled “Double Fantasy,” now streaming on Max.
The sophomore episode of “The Idol” has arrived, and following last week’s controversial and divisive series premiere, the stakes within the show have been raised. Troubled pop phenom Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) has a tortured video shoot, and then later invites her love interest, cult leader Tedros (Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye) and some of his followers to her house for a night of debauchery. The sex, drugs and industry drama is amped up compared to the first episode in an hour of television sure to start online discourse.
This episode is difficult to watch without considering reports of behind-the-scenes drama that nearly derailed the show. Notably, director Amy Seimetz left the series in April 2022 amid reshoots and shifts in creative direction, including a report that Tesfaye believed that...
The sophomore episode of “The Idol” has arrived, and following last week’s controversial and divisive series premiere, the stakes within the show have been raised. Troubled pop phenom Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) has a tortured video shoot, and then later invites her love interest, cult leader Tedros (Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye) and some of his followers to her house for a night of debauchery. The sex, drugs and industry drama is amped up compared to the first episode in an hour of television sure to start online discourse.
This episode is difficult to watch without considering reports of behind-the-scenes drama that nearly derailed the show. Notably, director Amy Seimetz left the series in April 2022 amid reshoots and shifts in creative direction, including a report that Tesfaye believed that...
- 6/12/2023
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
Note: This article contains spoilers from “The Idol” Episode 2
Last week, “The Idol” held true to its Cannes reputation and shocked HBO viewers as much it shocked those at the film festival. And this week’s episode was even more scandalous.
From “Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson, Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Reza Fahim comes HBO’s latest Sunday night drama. “The Idol” follows a pop idol by the name of Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) whose career is in the decline after a recent nervous breakdown. Her desperation to regain fame leads her into the arms of Tedros (Tesfaye), a self-help guru and modern-day cult leader.
The first two episodes of the series debuted at Cannes to mixed reviews. Many called out its use of sex and nudity, criticizing the series for falling into male fantasies. But the drama was already being heavily scrutinized well before its premiere. When it wasn’t...
Last week, “The Idol” held true to its Cannes reputation and shocked HBO viewers as much it shocked those at the film festival. And this week’s episode was even more scandalous.
From “Euphoria” creator Sam Levinson, Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Reza Fahim comes HBO’s latest Sunday night drama. “The Idol” follows a pop idol by the name of Jocelyn (Lily-Rose Depp) whose career is in the decline after a recent nervous breakdown. Her desperation to regain fame leads her into the arms of Tedros (Tesfaye), a self-help guru and modern-day cult leader.
The first two episodes of the series debuted at Cannes to mixed reviews. Many called out its use of sex and nudity, criticizing the series for falling into male fantasies. But the drama was already being heavily scrutinized well before its premiere. When it wasn’t...
- 6/12/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Many might be unaware of the contributions Yoko Ono has made to music. Her music is avant-garde, with sounds often ahead of their time. John Lennon loved her music and infused his own work with a more stylized feel, leading to more unconventional work in his solo career. In the 1970s, Lennon heard a song by The B-52’s that he thought sounded similar to Ono’s work.
John Lennon thought The B-52’s ‘Rock Lobster’ sounded ‘like Yoko’s music’ John Lennon and Yoko Ono | Keystone Features/Getty Images
The B-52’s formed in 1976 and became famous thanks to their fresh blend of pop and rock, with distinct vocals from Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson. Their first single, “Rock Lobster,” was released in 1978. While it wasn’t a massive hit, it achieved cult classic status and developed an audience over time. The band would later have bigger hits,...
John Lennon thought The B-52’s ‘Rock Lobster’ sounded ‘like Yoko’s music’ John Lennon and Yoko Ono | Keystone Features/Getty Images
The B-52’s formed in 1976 and became famous thanks to their fresh blend of pop and rock, with distinct vocals from Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson. Their first single, “Rock Lobster,” was released in 1978. While it wasn’t a massive hit, it achieved cult classic status and developed an audience over time. The band would later have bigger hits,...
- 6/10/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Despite the controversy, “The Idol” is still providing the bops.
The Weeknd, who stars in the series and helps co-create it with “Euphoria” director Sam Levinson, dropped the sexually-charged track “World Class Sinner/I’m A Freak” featuring Lily-Rose Depp and the hauntingly captivating “The Lure” on Friday.
“The Idol” delves into the story of a world-famous pop star, portrayed by Depp, who finds herself entangled in a provocative relationship with Tedros (The Weeknd), a self-help guru and cult leader.
Read More: ‘The Idol’ Viewers Slam Controversial New Show After The Weeknd Admits ‘It’s Not Going To Be For Everybody’
“World Class Sinner/I’m A Freak” already aired in last week’s episode of the glamorously dark series, which was the series’ first episode. The track served as the comeback track for Depp’s character Jocelyn.
The second single, “The Lure”, takes a different approach from its counterpart,...
The Weeknd, who stars in the series and helps co-create it with “Euphoria” director Sam Levinson, dropped the sexually-charged track “World Class Sinner/I’m A Freak” featuring Lily-Rose Depp and the hauntingly captivating “The Lure” on Friday.
“The Idol” delves into the story of a world-famous pop star, portrayed by Depp, who finds herself entangled in a provocative relationship with Tedros (The Weeknd), a self-help guru and cult leader.
Read More: ‘The Idol’ Viewers Slam Controversial New Show After The Weeknd Admits ‘It’s Not Going To Be For Everybody’
“World Class Sinner/I’m A Freak” already aired in last week’s episode of the glamorously dark series, which was the series’ first episode. The track served as the comeback track for Depp’s character Jocelyn.
The second single, “The Lure”, takes a different approach from its counterpart,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
HBO’s newest original drama, “The Idol,” delves into the dark side of fame.
Co-created and co-executive produced by Sam Levinson, Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Reza Fahim, it stars Lily-Rose Depp as Jocelyn, a pop star whose antics have captured the public’s attention (think Britney or Miley).
The logline for the series reads: “After a nervous breakdown derailed Jocelyn’s (Lily-Rose Depp) last tour, she’s determined to claim her rightful status as the greatest and sexiest pop star in America. Her passions are reignited by Tedros (Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye), a nightclub impresario with a sordid past. Will her romantic awakening take her to glorious new heights or the deepest and darkest depths of her soul?”
The drama is just unfolding, so if you’re eager to know exactly when you can see new episodes, we’ve assembled a handy guide to “The Idol” release schedule and what time new episodes air.
Co-created and co-executive produced by Sam Levinson, Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Reza Fahim, it stars Lily-Rose Depp as Jocelyn, a pop star whose antics have captured the public’s attention (think Britney or Miley).
The logline for the series reads: “After a nervous breakdown derailed Jocelyn’s (Lily-Rose Depp) last tour, she’s determined to claim her rightful status as the greatest and sexiest pop star in America. Her passions are reignited by Tedros (Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye), a nightclub impresario with a sordid past. Will her romantic awakening take her to glorious new heights or the deepest and darkest depths of her soul?”
The drama is just unfolding, so if you’re eager to know exactly when you can see new episodes, we’ve assembled a handy guide to “The Idol” release schedule and what time new episodes air.
- 6/4/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Before The Idol premieres on HBO / Max on June 4th, The Weeknd has unveiled “Popular,” a star-studded collaboration from the series’ soundtrack. Listen to the track — which features Playboi Carti and Madonna — below.
With lyrics like “Kill anyone to be popular/ sell her soul to be popular,” the single fits in with the Hollywood-ish commentary The Weeknd’s been known for… and the Madonna feature really boosts his ’80s-chic thing to the next level. “She’s the ultimate co-sign for this song,” he told Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1. “I’ve always wanted to write and produce a Madonna album… well, co-produce with her, of course. She’s a visionary and she has such a singular vision, and I just want to come into her world and create a classic Madonna album. That was always my dream. Hopefully this is the appetizer for that.”
Watch the visualizer for “Popular” — featuring...
With lyrics like “Kill anyone to be popular/ sell her soul to be popular,” the single fits in with the Hollywood-ish commentary The Weeknd’s been known for… and the Madonna feature really boosts his ’80s-chic thing to the next level. “She’s the ultimate co-sign for this song,” he told Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1. “I’ve always wanted to write and produce a Madonna album… well, co-produce with her, of course. She’s a visionary and she has such a singular vision, and I just want to come into her world and create a classic Madonna album. That was always my dream. Hopefully this is the appetizer for that.”
Watch the visualizer for “Popular” — featuring...
- 6/2/2023
- by Carys Anderson and Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
The Weeknd has dropped a new single, “Popular,” featuring Madonna and Playboi Carti. The upbeat pop number teases his forthcoming soundtrack LP, The Idol Vol. 1, out June 30. A video for the song showcases the cast of HBO series The Idol, including Lily-Rose Depp and Abel “the Weeknd” Tesfaye, galavanting around the Cannes Film Festival, where the series premiered last month.
A snippet of “Popular” was played during Cannes and began circulating on social media. The Weeknd previously teased the song’s collaboration when he posted a screenshot of himself on FaceTime with Playboi Carti.
A snippet of “Popular” was played during Cannes and began circulating on social media. The Weeknd previously teased the song’s collaboration when he posted a screenshot of himself on FaceTime with Playboi Carti.
- 6/2/2023
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
John Lennon’s assassination stunned the world. On Dec. 8, 1980. Lennon was shot by Mark David Chapman outside of his New York City apartment. The world briefly stopped as news broke and tributes poured in from the music community and his fans. While this date lives in infamy, Lennon’s death almost came a few months before, as he was nearly involved in a serious boating accident.
John Lennon almost died while on a voyage to Bermuda John Lennon | Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Six months before his assassination, John Lennon started a journey from Newport, Ri, to Bermuda. Bermuda became a creative home for him, where he refined many of the songs from his final album, Double Fantasy. However, the journey was perilous as it stumbled across stormy seas.
On the second day of sailing, his boat, the Megan Jaye, encountered a thunderstorm with huge waves and extreme winds.
John Lennon almost died while on a voyage to Bermuda John Lennon | Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Six months before his assassination, John Lennon started a journey from Newport, Ri, to Bermuda. Bermuda became a creative home for him, where he refined many of the songs from his final album, Double Fantasy. However, the journey was perilous as it stumbled across stormy seas.
On the second day of sailing, his boat, the Megan Jaye, encountered a thunderstorm with huge waves and extreme winds.
- 5/23/2023
- by Ross Tanenbaum
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
John Lennon said The Beatles’ “Yesterday” was Paul McCartney’s only good song in a track from Imagine. Yoko Ono was even more harsh in her assessment of Paul’s talents as a musician. Imagine was huge in the United States and even bigger in the United Kingdom. Paul McCartney and John Lennon | Bettmann / Contributor
John Lennon wrote a song that implied Paul McCartney didn’t write anything good besides The Beatles’ “Yesterday.” Subsequently, Paul got upset. He named a number of Beatles songs that he felt exhibited his talent.
John Lennon mentioned The Beatles’ ‘Yesterday’ in ‘How Do You Sleep?’
During a 2020 interview with GQ, Paul responded to something Yoko Ono said. “I remember reading an article, an interview with Yoko, who, Ok, she was a big John supporter, I get that, but in this article she goes, ‘Paul did nothing. All he ever did was book studio.
John Lennon said The Beatles’ “Yesterday” was Paul McCartney’s only good song in a track from Imagine. Yoko Ono was even more harsh in her assessment of Paul’s talents as a musician. Imagine was huge in the United States and even bigger in the United Kingdom. Paul McCartney and John Lennon | Bettmann / Contributor
John Lennon wrote a song that implied Paul McCartney didn’t write anything good besides The Beatles’ “Yesterday.” Subsequently, Paul got upset. He named a number of Beatles songs that he felt exhibited his talent.
John Lennon mentioned The Beatles’ ‘Yesterday’ in ‘How Do You Sleep?’
During a 2020 interview with GQ, Paul responded to something Yoko Ono said. “I remember reading an article, an interview with Yoko, who, Ok, she was a big John supporter, I get that, but in this article she goes, ‘Paul did nothing. All he ever did was book studio.
- 5/21/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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