John Lennon: A Life That Changed Music
October 9 is a special day in music history, marking the birth of one of rock’s greatest figures: John Lennon. Born in Liverpool, England, in 1940, Lennon would go on to co-found The Beatles, a band that redefined not only popular music but also popular culture. His sharp wit, rebellious nature, and visionary songwriting made him a cultural leader, while songs like “Imagine,” “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “All You Need Is Love” continue to resonate across generations.
This day carries an even deeper resonance in the Lennon family. On October 9, 1975, John and Yoko Ono welcomed their son Sean Lennon, born in New York City. The shared birthday became symbolic, tying together John’s personal life and his ongoing musical legacy. In fact, John took a step back from music after Sean’s birth, devoting himself to fatherhood before reemerging in 1980 with the Double Fantasy album, tragically released just weeks before his assassination.
Today, John Lennon remains a symbol of peace, creativity, and cultural revolution. His birthday is celebrated worldwide, from Liverpool to New York’s Strawberry Fields in Central Park.
Jackson Browne: The Poet of the Singer-Songwriter Era
Also born on October 9, Jackson Browne turns 77 today. Born on a U.S. military base in Heidelberg, Germany, Browne grew up to become one of America’s most introspective singer-songwriters. Known for his thoughtful lyrics and soulful voice, Browne’s music often blends personal reflection with political and social commentary.
His early albums, such as Late for the Sky and The Pretender, established him as a leader of the 1970s singer-songwriter movement, while hits like “Running on Empty,” “Doctor My Eyes,” and “Somebody’s Baby” remain radio staples. Beyond chart success, Browne’s influence has been felt in his activism—whether fighting for the environment, supporting human rights, or raising awareness through music festivals like No Nukes.
At 77, Jackson Browne is still performing, still writing, and still reminding audiences of the power of songs that speak to both the heart and the conscience. His career demonstrates that rock and folk aren’t just entertainment—they can be vehicles for truth and change.
John Entwistle: The Ox of The Who
October 9 also marks the birthday of John Entwistle, the late bassist of The Who, who would have been 81 today. Nicknamed “The Ox” for his solid presence and endurance, Entwistle helped shape the sound of one of rock’s loudest and most explosive bands.
Unlike many bassists of his era, Entwistle didn’t hide in the background. His aggressive, melodic style on tracks like “My Generation” and “Baba O’Riley” brought the bass guitar to the forefront, influencing countless musicians in the decades that followed. His ability to hold down The Who’s chaotic live shows—while Pete Townshend smashed guitars and Keith Moon destroyed drum kits—was nothing short of remarkable.
Entwistle also had a macabre sense of humor, evident in his solo albums and his offstage persona. Though he passed away in 2002, his legend lives on, reminding fans of the unique chemistry that made The Who one of rock’s greatest bands.
final note
It’s rare for one day to bring together so many influential musicians, but October 9 stands out as a triple birthday celebration. John Lennon’s visionary artistry changed the course of music and culture, Jackson Browne’s lyrical honesty shaped the singer-songwriter era, and John Entwistle’s powerhouse bass redefined the role of rhythm in rock.
Each of these artists contributed something essential: Lennon gave us songs of peace and protest, Browne gave us reflections of the self and society, and Entwistle gave us thunderous foundations for one of the most explosive bands in history. Together, they remind us that rock and roll is as much about individuality as it is about community—about celebrating unique voices while weaving them into a collective story.
