"All Those Years Ago" is a song by George Harrison, released in 1981. It was written as a tribute to his former Beatles bandmate, John Lennon, who was tragically murdered in 1980. The song reflects on the love, honesty, and truth that Lennon promoted throughout his life. The lyrics convey Harrison's frustration with how Lennon was mistreated and misunderstood during his life. He highlights Lennon's role in spreading the message of love and emphasizes that love is what humanity truly needs. Harrison also expresses his admiration for Lennon, stating that he always looked up to him. However, Harrison conveys sadness and disappointment about the circumstances that led to Lennon's tragic death, caused by someone who was influenced by evil forces. The lyrics suggest that humanity has forgotten about compassion, kindness, and the existence of God, whom Harrison sees as the reason for our being. Harrison further mentions how Lennon's ideas were often perceived as strange or weird by society, despite the truth and depth they held. He emphasizes that Lennon's words and actions had a profound impact on people, controlling their emotions and shaping their lives. The song concludes with a prayer to Lennon, hoping that his spirit now rests in a world untouched by lies or despised elements, where only truth and freedom exist. Overall, "All Those Years Ago" serves as a tribute to John Lennon, his philosophies, and his significant contribution to music and humanity. It reflects on the injustice and misunderstanding Lennon faced during his life, while also celebrating the enduring impact he had on the world.
