Why John Lennon Called Fats Domino A True Musical Inspiration

March 20, 2025

In the bustling heart of New York City, a young John Lennon sat in his small apartment, strumming his guitar and dreaming of changing the world with music. The Beatles were just beginning to take off, but deep down, Lennon knew that to truly make an impact, he needed to understand the roots of Rock and Roll. One evening, as he flipped through the radio stations, he heard the unmistakable voice of Fats Domino singing “Blueberry Hill.” The rich, warm sound washed over him like sunlight after a gloomy day, and in that moment, Lennon felt a spark of inspiration that would change his life.

Fats Domino was no ordinary musician. Born in New Orleans, he was the son of a sharecropper and faced many challenges growing up. Despite the struggles, Fats followed his passion for music, learning to play the piano and crafting songs that blended rhythm and blues with a unique flair. His joyful, bouncing melodies and heartfelt lyrics connected with people from all walks of life. As Lennon listened to Fats’ music, he couldn’t help but admire how the artist infused his own experiences and emotions into every note. It inspired him to dig deep within himself, revealing his own truths through his songs.

What truly moved Lennon about Fats Domino wasn’t just his incredible talent but also his resilience. Fats had broken through racial barriers during a turbulent time in America when segregation was prevalent. He became one of the first Black musicians to achieve mainstream success, proving that music could unite people, regardless of their backgrounds. This idea struck a chord with Lennon, who believed that music could be a powerful force for change. Fats’ ability to navigate the challenges of the music industry with grace and joy motivated Lennon to fight for his own vision, not just for himself but for a generation yearning for freedom and expression.

After hearing Fats Domino’s incredible performances, Lennon sought to honor his influence in his work with The Beatles. The band began to incorporate elements of Domino’s sound into their own songs. Their hit “Lady Madonna” echoed Fats’ lively, upbeat style, and it was clear that his music served as a guiding light for a new wave of artists. Lennon often spoke about Fats in interviews, calling him a “true musical inspiration.” He admired how Domino’s music could lift spirits and bring people together, an idea that resonated deeply with the Beatles’ philosophy.

As The Beatles skyrocketed to fame, Lennon never forgot the impact Fats Domino had on his life. He understood that every musician stands on the shoulders of giants, and Fats was one of the biggest. There were times when the pressures of fame weighed heavily on him, but when those moments came, he always returned to the music of Fats Domino. It reminded him to stay grounded and keep dancing, no matter how tough things got. In every note, in every lyric, Lennon carried a piece of Fats with him, and it became a reminder to use his voice not just for fame, but for the good of others.

In the end, John Lennon’s admiration for Fats Domino was more than just fandom; it was a testament to the power of music. Fats’ ability to turn struggles into melody inspired Lennon to create art that could heal, unite, and inspire. The legacy of Fats Domino lived on through Lennon’s work, proving that music is a universal language that transcends barriers. And somewhere in the heart of New Orleans, Fats continued to play, his joyful tunes echoing through time, reminding all who listened that resilience and passion are at the core of every great artist’s journey.