About the song
“Woman” is a poignant and deeply personal song written and performed by English singer-songwriter John Lennon, featured on his 1980 album *Double Fantasy*. Released as the second single from the album, “Woman” marked Lennon’s first posthumous single following his tragic murder on December 8, 1980. The B-side of the single features Yoko Ono’s track “Beautiful Boys”.
Lennon penned “Woman” as a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Yoko Ono, and women in general. The song opens with the line, “For the other half of the sky,” echoing a sentiment inspired by a Chinese proverb often cited by Mao Zedong. Reflecting on its origins, Lennon revealed in an interview with Rolling Stone just days before his untimely death that the song’s inspiration struck him during a sunny afternoon in Bermuda. He expressed profound gratitude for the role women play in life, emphasizing that his appreciation extended beyond his personal relationship with Yoko Ono to encompass the universal contributions of women.
Musically, “Woman” has been noted for its Beatlesque quality, with Lennon himself describing it as a mature evolution of his earlier Beatles hit, “Girl”. Its melodic simplicity and introspective lyrics underscore the sincerity of Lennon’s emotions, making it a standout track on *Double Fantasy*.
Following its initial release, “Woman” achieved significant chart success. In the United Kingdom, it topped the charts, replacing Lennon’s own iconic song “Imagine”. In the United States, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, held back from the top spot by hits like REO Speedwagon’s “Keep On Loving You” and Blondie’s “Rapture”. The song also reached number one on the Cashbox Top 100 chart.
To promote “Woman”, a promotional film directed by Yoko Ono was created in January 1981. Filmed primarily in Central Park near The Dakota, where Lennon and Ono lived, the video captures intimate moments between the couple, juxtaposed with poignant imagery related to Lennon’s life and legacy.
Critically acclaimed for its sincerity and emotional depth, “Woman” remains a cherished testament to John Lennon’s enduring legacy as a songwriter and artist. Its universal themes of love, gratitude, and loss continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring its place as one of Lennon’s most beloved solo works.
Video
Lyrics
For the other half of the sky
Woman, I can hardly express,
My mixed emotion at my thoughtlessness,
After all I’m forever in your debt,And woman, I will try to express,
My inner feelings and thankfulness,
For showing me the meaning of success,
Ooh, well, well,
Ooh, well, well,Woman, I know you understand
The little child inside the man,
Please remember my life is in your hands,And, woman, hold me close to your heart,
However distant don’t keep us apart,
After all it is written in the stars,
Ooh, well, well,
Ooh, well, well,Woman, please let me explain,
I never meant to cause you sorrow or pain,
So let me tell you again and again and again,I love you (yeah, yeah) now and forever,
I love you (yeah, yeah) now and forever,
I love you (yeah, yeah) now and forever,
I love you (yeah, yeah).