Today is Julian Lennon's 48th birthday, born April 8, 1963, just as his father John was beginning the meteoric rise to godhead status with the Beatles. He wouldn't see his dad too terribly much as Beatlemania took over the world, something that both men struggled with as the years went on.
The younger Lennon struck out on his own with a pop career in the early '80s, after his father was gunned down in 1980. His first album, Valotte, was a smash in 1984, going platinum on the strength of hit single "Too Late For Goodbyes". His half-brother Sean would also get into the family business and become a musician in the '90s, releasing a line of indie-rock albums on the Beastie Boys failed Grand Royal label before teaming up with mother Yoko Ono on various projects.
We made a quick top ten list of some of the best singles from rocker and rapper offspring. You will search for that one headlight, whip your hair, stomp in your boots, and like it, but won't exactly know why.
Julian Lennon "Too Late For Goodbyes"
If you look closely, that's Sammy Hagar dancing in the doorway while J-Lon jams on the keys. Or at least we hope it is the Red Rocker. Also, when did I start crying blood?
Sean Lennon "Home"
This was more of an indie-smash than it was a conventional hit single. Dig the daddy-like chorus.
The Wallflowers "One Headlight"
Why does this single sound so good coming out of a jukebox when you are all alone?
Hank Williams Jr. "Family Tradition"
Eternal bad-ass Bocephus also has a hellraiser in his son Hank III.
Willow Smith "Whip My Hair"
Don't act like your feet don't tap to this.
