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Discover the story of the song > Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon

Who sang Happy Xmas (War Is Over)?

John Lennon released the song Happy Xmas (War Is Over). Date of release: 1/12/1971.

Release date: 1/12/1971
Duration: 03:34
Writer(s): John Lennon
Producer(s): Phil Spector
The story of the song ' Happy Xmas (War Is Over) '

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The meaning of the song 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over) ', based on the lyrics
What is Happy Xmas (War Is Over) about?
🎶 Happy Xmas (War Is Over) song analysis

- The song is sung by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, with the Harlem Community Choir.

- It is a Christmas song about peace.

- The lyrics say that Christmas is a time of peace and love, and that we should hope for a better year without fear.

- The chorus repeats the phrase "the war is over, if you want it to be". This means that we have the power to end the war if we all work together.

- At the end of the song, there is a repeated section that wishes everyone a Merry Christmas.

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This explanation is based on the lyrics of ‘Happy Xmas (War Is Over)’. The meaning is of course subject to interpretation.
The meaning of the song lyrics, in a few words...
The song “War is Over” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono is a Christmas song about peace that repeats the phrase “war is over, if you want it” to mean that we have the power to end war if we all work together.
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John Lennon - Short Biography


- John Lennon was an English singer, songwriter, musician and peace activist who achieved worldwide fame as the founder, co-songwriter, co-lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of The Beatles.

- Lennon's work is characterized by the rebellious nature and acerbic wit of his music, writings and drawings, films and interviews. His songwriting partnership with Paul McCartney remains the most successful in history.

- Born in Liverpool, Lennon was part of the skiffle craze as a teenager. In 1956, he formed The Quarrymen, which became The Beatles in 1960. Sometimes referred to as "the smart Beatle," he was initially the de facto leader of the group, a role that was gradually ceded to him.
john lennon portrait
Image credit: Joost Evers / Anefo – Wikimedia
story of a song - Happy Xmas (War Is Over) - John Lennon
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- "Happy Xmas" is a Christmas song released in 1971 as a single by John and Yoko/Plastic Ono Band with the Harlem Community Choir.

- The song reached #4 in the UK, where its release was delayed until November 1972.

- "Happy Xmas" reappeared periodically on the UK Singles Chart, most notably after Lennon's murder in December 1980, where it reached number two.

- The song was written by John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

- It was produced by Phil Spector.

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