BBC to do Lennon-Bermuda show

BBC Radio 4 will be in Bermuda this week to document the Second Annual John Lennon Double Fantasy Bermuda Tribute Concert.

The station will be dedicating a radio programme, ‘Imagine John Lennon’s Bermuda Adventure’ to the ex-Beatle and musical icon.

Months before John Lennon’s life tragically ended, he spent the summer of 1980 living and working in Bermuda. BBC Radio 4 host John McCarthy and producer, John Sugar will revisit the places on the island that inspired Lennon to compose 30 songs on his comeback recording in 1980, Double Fantasy and his final album, Milk & Honey in 1984.

Profound

A place that had a profound effect on Lennon was the Botanical Gardens, which he visited several times. While exploring the gardens, the former Beatle came across a species of freesia called double fantasy. 

The idea of one living thing incorporating the ideas of two minds struck him as symbolising his relationship with his wife, Yoko Ono. Subsequently, Double Fantasy became the name of the album that he recorded upon his return to New York from Bermuda.

Also while on island Lennon posed for a painting by local artist Nancy Goswell.

During his visit this week, Mr. McCarthy will chat with the director of parks, Lisa Johnston, about Lennon’s time spent at the Botanical Gardens and he will also interview Ms Goswell to gain insight on how Lennon found his creative energy while in Bermuda. 

The half-hour documentary, Imagine John Lennon’s Bermuda Adventure will be broadcast on two networks; BBC Radio 4 on Monday, November 4 and on BBC World Service in early November.

Delighted

Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell said in a press release: “We are delighted to invite BBC Radio 4, one of the UK’s largest radio stations, to Bermuda to document such an iconic musician who was very close to our hearts, as he was so heavily inspired by our island’s beauty. 

“For the last two years, Bermuda has paid homage to John Lennon, by hosting the Annual John Lennon Double Fantasy Bermuda Tribute Concert. 

“We are looking forward celebrating his musical genius with BBC Radio 4 as they unveil his story.”