"Shaved Fish," a 1975 compilation by John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band, encapsulates the socio-political spirit of the mid-1970s. Featuring iconic hits like "Imagine" and "Give Peace a Chance," the album reflects Lennon's activism. Produced by Lennon, Yoko Ono, and Phil Spector, its cover design by Roy Kohara and Michael Brya became an emblem of the era. The title originated from Lennon's desire for a distinctive name, reflecting the uniqueness of the compilation.
The release of "Shaved Fish," the compilation album by John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band in 1975, marked a significant contribution to the musical landscape of its time. This collection showcased some of Lennon's most iconic songs, including timeless classics like "Imagine," "Give Peace a Chance," "Cold Turkey," and "Power to the People."
In the context of the mid-1970s, the album reflected the prevailing socio-political atmosphere. The world was navigating through a tumultuous period marked by activism, calls for peace, and the lingering impact of the counterculture movements of the 1960s. John Lennon, known for his activism and outspoken views, used his music as a platform to convey messages of peace, love, and social change.
The production of "Shaved Fish" involved a collaboration of notable producers, including John Lennon himself, Yoko Ono, and Phil Spector. This convergence of creative minds contributed to the album's unique sound and its ability to resonate with a diverse audience.
The album cover design and artwork, credited to Roy Kohara and Michael Brya, played a crucial role in visually representing the essence of the music. The cover, with its distinctive design, became an iconic visual representation of John Lennon's solo career during this period.
The record's label, Apple Records, known for its association with The Beatles, added a historical context to the album. The use of both catalog numbers, 5C 062-05987 on the back cover and 1A 062-05987 on the record's label, reflects the attention to detail in the production process and the significance attributed to cataloging and record-keeping within the music industry at that time.
This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with the Japanese flag drawing and lyrics of all the songs performed by John Lennon and the Plastic Ono band.
John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Phil Spector
Roy Kohara
Michael Bryan
Pop-Rock
Apple Records – 5C 062-05987 ( On the album's back cover )
Apple Records – 1A 062-05987 ( On the record's label )
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
Netherlands
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
Odeon 1C 064-78 224 (8224) , 1982 , Germany
"The John Lennon Collection," a 1982 German vinyl release, encapsulates the essence of John Lennon's solo brilliance amid the dynamic early '80s. With tracks like "Give Peace a Chance" and "(Just like) Starting Over," it mirrors the era's socio-cultural tapestry. This compilation, featuring iconic classics, showcases Lennon's versatility and enduring commitment to peace.
Learn moreGeffen Records GEF 99 131 , 1980 , Germany
John Lennon's 1980 album "Double Fantasy," a collaborative effort with Yoko Ono and Jack Douglas, marked a poignant moment in his post-Beatles career. Recorded in New York, it skillfully blended Lennon's songwriting with avant-garde influences. Released globally under Geffen Records, its impact reverberated tragically when Lennon was fatally shot on December 8, 1980.
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Imagine is the 1971 and 2nd solo album released by the ex-Beatles musician John Lennon. It was produced together with Yoko Ono and Phil Spector. It was recorded at Ascot Sound Studios, Abbey Road Studios and the Record Plant in New York City.
Imagine (UK Pressing) Imagine (Capitol Records, USA)Parlophone 1A 006-07492 , 1971 , Hollnd
The 1971 Netherlands release of John Lennon's "Jealous Guy" on Parlophone embodies the transformative musical era. With collaborative efforts from Lennon, Yoko Ono, and Phil Spector, the single reflects the international reach of music, marked by a distinctive label design.
Learn moreONO Music 817 160 , 1984 , West-Germany
"Milk and Honey," the 1984 German release by John Lennon and Yoko Ono on Polydor Records, encapsulates their posthumous collaboration. Laden with intimate photographs by Kishin Shinoyama and Allan Tannenbaum, the album blends Lennon's guitar finesse, Ono's distinct vocals, and a diverse ensemble of musicians.
Learn moreApple 1C 062-05 491 , 1973 , Germany
John Lennon's 1983 album "Mind Games" is a self-produced masterpiece recorded at New York's Record Plant Studios. Reflecting the socio-cultural landscape of the early '80s, the album features Lennon's "Declaration of Nutopia," envisioning a borderless world.
Learn moreRCA Victor PL 10570 , 1974 , Germany
"Pussycats," the 1974 album produced by John Lennon, stands as a collaborative masterpiece, featuring a roster of iconic musicians. Released under Catalognr RCA Victor PL 10570 and Made in Germany, it embodies the eclectic spirit of the 1970s.
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"Rock 'n' Roll" German vinyl release, distinct with its unique cover design and minimal text, is a collaborative masterpiece with Phil Spector. Marking the era's musical landscape, it pays homage to rock's golden age.
Rock 'n' Roll (German Release) Rock 'n' Roll (Netherlands Release)
"Shaved Fish" is the first compilation album by John Lennon, released in 1975. The compilation includes many of Lennon's most popular solo recordings, some never before included on an album. The name of the album originates from the Japanese food katsuobushi, a kind of dried fish.
Shaved Fish (Netherlands Release) Shaved Fish (UK Release)Geffen Records GEF 79 186 , 1980 , Germany
"(Just Like) Starting Over" is a track taken from the 1980's album "Double Fantasy". The photo on the front of this picture sleeve is the same as on the front of the LP album and is a black and white photo showing Yoko Ono and John Lennon kissing.
Learn moreApple T-5001 , 1968 , USA
The album front cover displayed Lennon and Ono frontally nude, while the rear cover featured them from behind. Distributors were prompted to sell the album in a plain brown wrapper, and copies of the album were impounded as obscenity in several jurisdictions.
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