The John Lennon and Eric Clapton Song That Were Rejected By The Beatles

The Beatles were a musical powerhouse, creating countless iconic songs that shaped an era. But not every idea made it to their legendary catalog. Some tracks were left behind, either deemed unsuitable or overshadowed by other hits.

One such song was “Cold Turkey”, a collaboration between John Lennon and Eric Clapton. Despite its bold style and raw energy, it never found a place within The Beatles’ lineup. Rejected and set aside, it stands as a curious “what if” in their history.

The reasons for its dismissal reveal a lot about the band’s dynamics at the time. From creative differences to changing musical priorities, the story of “Cold Turkey” offers a fascinating glimpse into the decision-making process of The Beatles.

Rejected, But Not Forgotten

Over the years, The Beatles left many songs behind, abandoning them on the cutting room floor. While some faded into obscurity, others found new life outside the band. George Harrison often reclaimed these tracks, but John Lennon had his share too.

One notable example is “Cold Turkey”, a song with layers of interpretation. Initially conceived by Lennon, it featured contributions from Eric Clapton, a trusted collaborator of The Beatles. Despite its potential, the band passed on it.

Lennon didn’t let the rejection stop him. He released the song through the Plastic Ono Band, making it his second solo single. “Cold Turkey” grew into a pivotal moment in Lennon’s solo career, showcasing the raw energy that might have made it a standout Beatles track.

“We Sniffed a Little When We Were in Real Pain”

According to John Lennon, “Cold Turkey” was a brutally honest portrayal of the agony of overcoming heroin addiction. He and Yoko Ono had turned to the drug during a dark chapter in their lives. “It just was not too much fun,” Lennon admitted in a 1970 interview. “We sniffed a little when we were in real pain.”

Lennon described the immense pressure and hostility they faced, both from outsiders and within their own circle. He recalled, “I’ve had so much shit thrown at me and especially at Yoko. People in our office wouldn’t even acknowledge her.” These constant slights left the pair struggling to cope with emotional turmoil.

The addiction, Lennon said, was a response to the pain inflicted on them by others, including those tied to The Beatles. Despite the hardship, Lennon and Ono found their way out, and “Cold Turkey” became a stark testament to their resilience during one of their most challenging times.

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The Turbulent Year That Inspired “Cold Turkey”

1969 was a pivotal and challenging year for The Beatles. Still reeling from the loss of their manager, Brian Epstein, the group’s internal tensions had reached a breaking point. As their impending breakup loomed, John Lennon found temporary solace in heroin, which influenced his detachment during the Let It Be sessions and his focus on personal projects.

By the end of the year, however, Lennon and Yoko Ono decided to confront their addiction. The harrowing experience of withdrawal, or “cold turkey,” provided the spark for Lennon’s raw and visceral song. It was a deeply personal reflection on their struggle to break free from the grip of drugs.

Lennon later described the song as “self-explanatory,” but its reception was complicated. Banned by many American radio stations, the song was misunderstood as promoting heroin rather than addressing the broader issues of drug abuse.

“I’m not preaching about drugs”

“I’m not preaching about drugs,” Lennon once explained. “I’m just saying a drug is a drug. Why we take them is important.” With that mindset, Lennon began crafting “Cold Turkey” in early September 1969. To bring the track to life, he enlisted the help of his close friend and collaborator, Eric Clapton.

Lennon and Clapton shared a bond that extended beyond music. Their creative synergy often hinted at the possibility of forming a band together. Lennon even floated the idea of Clapton replacing George Harrison during a brief period when Harrison left The Beatles in frustration.

At the time, Lennon was still tethered to The Beatles, and any project required careful navigation. He recorded three takes of the song: one solo, another with Clapton on guitar, and a final version featuring Yoko Ono on vocals. With these drafts in hand, Lennon turned to Paul McCartney to decide the song’s fate.

The Bold Move That Signaled Change

Lennon once suggested that “Cold Turkey” could be The Beatles’ next single, but he knew it was too risky. The song, dealing with heroin withdrawal, would have been a hard sell for the band. Still, Lennon played along with the idea, only for McCartney to reject it outright.

With that door closed, Lennon made a bold decision: he would release the track on his own, without McCartney’s involvement. This move marked a clear signal of Lennon’s growing intent to step away from The Beatles, paving the way for his solo career.

After perfecting the song, even bringing Ringo Starr in for drums, “Cold Turkey” was officially released on October 20, 1969. The single’s label, emblazoned with “PLAY LOUD,” invited listeners to experience the raw emotion of Lennon’s personal struggles, a defining moment in his artistic journey.

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