_{John Lennon ‘Power To The People’ / Yoko Ono ‘Open Your Box’ via Cash Box March 20, 1971}

Being the 50th anniversary of this Plastic Ono Band release (Mar. 12 ’71 UK/Mar. 22, ’71 US), let’s listen in to John Lennon’s “Power To The People” and Yoko Ono’s “Open Your Box.”

“Power To The People” was recorded, with Phil Spector producing, during sessions for Lennon’s Imagine album. The anthem hit #11 in the US and #7 in the UK. The song has an undeniable sing-a-long and stomp your feet quality but doesn’t really rank up there with Lennon’s best. The artist himself later admitted to being a bit embarrassed by the tune.

Yoko Ono’s “Open Your Box” faced some controversy due to its racy lyrics and Capital Records refused to release it in the US. It was replaced by the tune “Touch Me.” “Open Your Box” was produced by Lennon-Ono and features Lennon on funky guitar.

John Lennon, “Power To The People” (1971)

Yoko Ono, “Open Your Box” (1971)

Previously on Classic 70s Ads: Sammy Johns, “Chevy Van” (1975)

More John & Yoko: Daily 70s Ad: John Lennon Plastic Ono Band, ‘Shaved Fish’ (1975)