Happy Xmas (War Is Over) is a song by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, released on December 1, 1971, in the United States and November 24, 1972, in the United Kingdom. The song was produced by Phil Spector, John Lennon, and Yoko Ono.
It falls under the genre of rock Christmas music and was released as a single by the Plastic Ono Band, featuring the Harlem Community Choir. The song was recorded at the Record Plant East in New York City on October 28 and 31, 1971. It was later included in various Christmas music compilations and has become a holiday standard.
The song was part of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s peace activism efforts, which began with their bed-ins for peace in 1969. The lyrics of Happy Xmas (War Is Over) reflect their desire for peace and an end to war, particularly the Vietnam War, which was ongoing at the time. The song’s message is one of hope and a call for unity and peace. The chorus, sung by the Harlem Community Choir, adds communal spirit and inclusiveness to the song.
The music video for Happy Xmas (War Is Over) features footage of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, with children and scenes from the Vietnam War. The video emphasizes the song’s message of peace and the impact of war on innocent lives. It also includes scenes from the peace campaigns, such as the “War Is Over! If You Want It” billboards they placed in major cities around the world.
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its status as a Christmas classic. The song’s powerful message continues to resonate with audiences around the world. It has been included in various holiday music charts and polls, often ranking among the top Christmas songs of all time.
John Lennon’s collaboration with Yoko Ono on Happy Xmas (War Is Over) marked a significant moment in his post-Beatles career. The song’s success demonstrated his ability to create music that not only entertained but also conveyed important social and political messages.
Happy Xmas MP3 (War Is Over) by John Lennon and Yoko Ono is a call for peace and shows us how the power of music can bring people together and inspire change. The song’s release during the Vietnam War era added to its significance, and its message remains relevant today.
Play Happy Xmas By John Lennon
Lyrics for Happy Xmas By John Lennon
Happy Christmas, Kyoko
Happy Christmas, Julian
So this is Christmas
And what have you done
Another year over
And a new one just begun
And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young
A very Merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let’s hope it’s a good one
Without any fear
And so this is Christmas (war is over)
For weak and for strong (if you want it)
For rich and the poor ones (war is over)
The road is so long (now)
And so happy Christmas (war is over)
For black and for white (if you want it)
For yellow and red ones (war is over)
Let’s stop all the fight (now)
A very Merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let’s hope it’s a good one
Without any fear
And so this is Christmas (war is over)
And what have we done (if you want it)
Another year over (war is over)
And a new one just begun (now)
And so happy Christmas (war is over)
We hope you have fun (if you want it)
The near and the dear one (war is over)
The old and the young (now)
A very Merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let’s hope it’s a good one
Without any fear
War is over, if you want it
War is over now
Happy Christmas!
Lyrics Explanation for Happy Xmas By John Lennon
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono is a song that carries a profound message of peace and hope. The lyrics begin with a simple greeting, “So this is Christmas,” which sets a reflective tone. Lennon then addresses us directly, asking what we have done over the past year. This question encourages self-reflection and a consideration of our actions and impact on the world.
The song continues with a wish for a “Happy Christmas” to everyone, regardless of our background or circumstances. Lennon specifically mentions “the near and the dear one, the old and the young,” emphasizing inclusivity and the idea that the holiday season should be a time of unity and goodwill for all.
The chorus, featuring the Harlem Community Choir, repeats the phrase “War is over, if you want it,” which is a powerful statement about the potential for peace. This line suggests that ending the conflict is within our control if we collectively desire it and work towards it. The repetition of this message throughout the song reinforces its importance and urgency.
In the second verse, Lennon contrasts the joy of Christmas with the ongoing suffering caused by war. He sings, “A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, let’s hope it’s a good one without any fear.” This line highlights the contrast between the festive season and the harsh realities faced by many around the world. It serves as a reminder that while we celebrate, we should also be mindful of those who are suffering and strive to create a better future for everyone.
The song’s bridge introduces a hopeful note, with Lennon singing, “And so this is Christmas, for weak and for strong, for rich and the poor ones, the world is so wrong.” Here, he acknowledges the inequalities and injustices that exist but also expresses a desire for change. The mention of “weak and strong” and “rich and poor” underscores the universal nature of the song’s message.
The final verse reiterates reflection and hope, with Lennon once again asking what we have done over the past year and wishing for a peaceful and joyful future. The song concludes with the repeated chorus, driving home the message that peace is possible if we truly want it and are willing to work towards it.
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is a song that combines the festive spirit of Christmas with a powerful call for peace and unity. Its lyrics encourage us to reflect on our actions, consider the impact of war, and strive for a better, more peaceful world. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to resonate with people across generations.
