“You have to be a bastard to make it, and that’s a fact. And the Beatles are the biggest bastards on earth.”
- October 9, 1940 – December 8, 1980
- British
- Musician, Songwriter, Peace Activist, Founding Member of The Beatles
table of contents
Quote
“You have to be a bastard to make it, and that’s a fact. And the Beatles are the biggest bastards on earth.”
Explanation
John Lennon delivers a provocative commentary on the ruthless nature of success, particularly in the competitive world of music and fame. By saying, “you have to be a bastard to make it,” he highlights a harsh truth about ambition, suggesting that achieving greatness often requires toughness, ego, and even moral compromise. His use of the word “bastard” is likely metaphorical, referring not to cruelty but to the cutthroat behavior or emotional detachment sometimes necessary in high-stakes environments.
The second part of the quote, “the Beatles are the biggest bastards on earth,” is intentionally shocking and self-critical. Lennon may be demystifying the romanticized image of the Beatles as gentle peace-loving icons, instead presenting them as strategic, assertive individuals who navigated the ruthless entertainment industry with savvy and control. It reflects his awareness of the contradiction between public perception and private reality, a theme that recurred in his post-Beatles reflections.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with discussions about the cost of success, especially in industries where public image can mask internal power dynamics or personal sacrifice. It serves as a reminder that even those who appear idealistic or harmonious may have fought fiercely for their place—and that success often demands more than talent alone. Lennon’s blunt honesty invites reflection on the moral compromises behind achievement.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
