Exploring John Lennon’s Unusual Connection to the 1952 FA Cup
John Lennon, the famed musician and member of The Beatles, had an intriguing tie to football through his childhood drawing inspired by the 1952 FA Cup Final. This unusual connection highlights how rock and roll and sports sometimes intertwine.
John Lennon and the 1952 FA Cup Final
The 1952 FA Cup Final was a significant event in British football history. It featured Newcastle United and Arsenal, with Newcastle clinching victory thanks to a late goal from George Robledo. This match marked Newcastle’s second consecutive FA Cup win.
A Childhood Memory
Although John Lennon was not particularly devoted to football as an adult, his interest in the sport began in his childhood in Woolton, Liverpool. As a child, he captured George Robledo’s winning goal in a drawing. This seemingly simple act linked him to the game, despite his later divergence towards music and activism.
The Lasting Impact of the Drawing
- Lennon kept the drawing for decades.
- It eventually appeared on the cover of his 1974 album, Walls and Bridges.
- The album is known for its experimental style and autobiographical themes.
Interestingly, Lennon resided at number nine, Newcastle Road in Liverpool, which adds another layer to his connection to Newcastle. This location was notable, as Jackie Milburn, Newcastle’s famous number nine, was also featured in Lennon’s childhood drawing alongside Robledo.
The Mystique of Number Nine
Lennon had a lifelong fascination with the number nine, which appeared in many of his works, including the song “#9 Dream” on the same album. It raises questions about whether this fascination began in childhood or if it was a conscious choice for the album cover.
Conclusion
Ultimately, John Lennon’s link to the 1952 FA Cup Final illustrates a unique intersection between music and sports. His retrospective attachment to that childhood drawing serves as a reminder of how personal experiences can shape artistic expressions in unexpected ways.
