Fantastic Photos of JOHN LENNON at the Dakota (w/ my narration)

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Interested in books about the architecture and history of the Dakota, Friar Park, and Tittenhurst Park? I've written a bunch about them. You can find all of them on Amazon and elsewhere. Buying my books helps support my research and productions. Thank you! tinyurl.com/DakotaHistoryCardinal

[@AHLUser]

I was born on John & Sean's Birthdays (10/9) and have always admired him, and simply adore Yoko...!! This wonderful video has me in tears, it so incredible to see & know how John & Yoko lived... I still vividly remember that night when the news came on the TV.. so sad.

[@uwsgrrrl9981]

I lived on W. 75 Street off Central Park in the 70’s. I saw John & Yoko a few times walking hand in hand on Central Park West. I was in awe since I was a huge Beatle fan then & now.

[@SD-nh5yr]

Losing John was like losing a piece of my youth...as a teenager I grew up with The Beatles, their music got me threw some hard growing up times. I miss you John and George too.❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏✌️✌️

[@lmundiclan]

Thank you for this loving tribute to John, Yoko, & their children.

[@SamsungPhone-kk3ot]

I was 13 when John Lennon was shot, Im now a 56 year old woman and I can't believe that its 43 years since he was killed. It makes me realise how young he was when his life was taken, but boy, what a lot of life he packed in to his short life and what a legacy he left. RIP Mr Lennon x

[@robintyde5441]

In the late 1970's in NYC I would see Yoko and John Lennon on the East side of 86th Street at the Horn & Hardart Automatic sitting upstairs balcony section. I lived on 93rd Street. So they often walked from the Dakota into Central Park to the East side of Yorkville. Most actors/celebrities walked all over Manhattan.

[@cindyfitzgerald4500]

How fascinating to be able to see all kinds of famous people. I’ve only seen them on TV movies or videos. To see them in person how cool

[@seanbon74]

I read somewhere that when he’d jump in a cab the driver would ask “are you John Lennon” Lennon would laugh and answer “wish I had his money”.What a brilliant songwriter and singer.

[@alonenjersey]

Don't forget good old John giving the cab driver a $20.00 tip.

[@paulmanhart4481]

I remember when I heard about John’s death that night while watching TV. I have never felt so bad, so bewildered, so useless. There was nothing I could do. I couldn’t hope for his recovery. I couldn’t change anything. I couldn’t burst out in rage. He was gone. Just like that. So I cried all night.

[@alonenjersey]

I myself heard the terrible news the morning after as I was having breakfast before heading out the door to high school. Jeez, I was numb throughout the whole day. I can honestly say my heart & mind were truly not tuned in to the classes that sad day.

[@LoriVFenske]

The Dakota wasn’t in a dangerous part of the city. It was the Upper West Side right across from the safest part of Central Park and a safe neighborhood. I lived on the UWS not far from the Dakota in the late 70s thru the 80s. You saw famous people every day. And no one bothered them. They talked to you and you interacted like the neighbors you were. Smart New Yorkers also knew which places to steer clear of, especially late at night. Everyone knew who John was and respected his privacy. New Yorkers then were very different than the current contrived, celebrity obsession we have today. The fact that the Dakota door man let Chapman hang out all day into the evening was bizarre and quite suspicious. No door man building in NYC allowed anyone to hang around for even five minutes if they didn’t live there. Funny how no one talks about that. One of the people who worked with John and Yoko has spoken about it.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

I think they were just used to fans being there, and didn't want to offend them. They should have gotten them out of there.

[@marleyite]

@@StrangeHistoryX : Personally I think this guy Chapman was intent on taking John's life period.

[@JohnSmith-iq4xqi]

It doesn't matter if it wasn't in a dangerous part of the city; people flocked there from all over America, and the world even. Look where that scumbag lived, nowhere near the Dakota, but he had it in his head to murder John, come what may. Why on earth did John think he was free and safe to live in a country where buying a gun is second nature to everyone who lives there?

[@094340]

I have to agree with you. It's one thing to see fans assemble all the time, but it's another thing when one fan is there all day, and then is still lurking around by himself so late at night. I'm not blaming the doorman for what happened, but you have one job to do, and that guy was absolutely oblivious to what was going on right under his nose.

[@bbsoni4814]

totally agree with you...this doorman was completely useless, not even doing his job...the fans being there during the day is one thing but at night, that should have caught that doorman's attention...about Goresh, he was a nice guy but he hasstled John for a while....making a lot of money out of this morbid photo is not great thhoughh, he should have give it to some kind of charity...

[@LloydBraun11]

Like many times before, I was thinking it as the narration came on. Of all tragedies, John Lennons death has always stood out as the one you wish you could go back in time and stop.

[@rocker76m88]

If only we could 😢

[@richalderson6069]

These photos show how approachable and open John was. He was quite clearly a happy man living in domestic bliss with his family and that was tragically taken away from him.

[@Accam570]

Or.....

[@andygossard4293]

Uhh I think he was more Jekyll and Hyde, if he had had alcohol he usually mocked people

[@pitchforkcustom]

not as approachable to Julian was he…. get real

[@alanhastings6304]

He was in a unhappy marriage

[@JohnSmith-iq4xqi]

'Imagine no possessions, it is easy when you try' YEAH RIGHT, imagine no kettle to make that 1st cup of tea in the morning. Not so easy when you think along those lines. I could not do without my cup of tea in the morning.

[@paulward4395]

So glad he lived his life free, what a talent, sorely missed

[@LindaDB]

Thank you Scott! Awesome video! I appreciate the narration so I know what I’m looking at. Well done!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Awesome, thank you!

[@stellabythesea1492]

Linda how did you post the donation. Can you walk me through it please and thank you ❤

[@blackheartbrandy]

@@stellabythesea1492under the title where the 👍 and 👎 and Share are, there is a button that says “Thanks” with a dollar sign. That’s the donation button. You might have to scroll over to see it.

[@LindaDB]

@@stellabythesea1492sorry, I just saw this, but it looks like Brandy had it covered. 😊

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Sure, I'd be happy to walk you through it! First, go to your KZbin Studio dashboard and click on the "Monetization" tab. From there, you can select "Donations" and follow the prompts to set up and post your donation. Let me know if you have any other questions!

[@harpers1niter]

I couldn't have enjoyed this more than I did. The pictures and the commentary are excellent. I love when you do Beatles stuff.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@carolynfabiano1751]

Me too! Great video!

[@peterstroud1528]

I will always those two,excellent work&enjoyable presentation indeed.

[@alonenjersey]

Thanks for sharing good sir.

[@richardsoderkvist6383]

Thank-you very much for sharing these pictures of John Lennon and his family and friends they are very nice photos.And the Dakota building.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

You're very welcome

[@johnfrei9057]

Totally agree that John was way too trusting and should have never left the Dakota without a security guard.

[@riamazzarone3707]

Great video, thank you. I was in college when Lennon was shot. I went to the memorial in Central Park. I can remember every detail of those days, even what I wore to the memorial, the weather, how silent the moment of silence was, everything. That event in history had significance in my life.

[@patrickhughes3587]

I need to say that I was a manager at the Dakota for about a year around 1988 or so and the narrative here is excellent, spot on. Your knowledge of the building, layout, courtyard... the fact that John and Yoko had 3 apartments at the Dakota for their home and Studio One activities would not be known by most. I was in John's apartment and do not specifically remember some of the rooms in the photos, but they are certainly in keeping of my memories. The building is wonderful, an architectural marvel- the courtyard and its fountains which came alive during the summer for the annual Courtyard party. I iss those times. Well done.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Wow, what a great comment. Thank you so much for sharing that. I really appreciate it. It always bother some when people just believe the same old dopey stories about J&Y at the Dakota that aren't true. People really think they own the entire top floor, or top floors. Or that they own half the building, et.c It's so silly. They think there is some big lobby as if it's a hotel. So I'm doing my best to try to get the facts out there, as best I can. Are you familiar with my books about the Dakota? I wish I could have gotten down to the basement to get a better idea of the layout in recent decades. I still have so many questions. The building is endlessly fascinating to me.

[@enkibumbu]

Yeah man. I was there. My father drove me here one weekend and I waited outside for an hour to see John. He never showed up. But, it was exciting.

[@knottybogeye6387]

I came from liverpool UK, to stand where john and Yoko stood outside the Dakota, it was great.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Cool. When did you do that?

[@knottybogeye6387]

@@StrangeHistoryX 6 yrs ago, on John's birthday aswell

[@eddieschubert9917]

I really enjoyed it thank you very much.I have been going to the decoder for the last 35 years on the anniversaries. I am also a lifelong New Yorker.I will always love his music and Strawberry Fields

[@JohnLancaster-b5x]

John wanted the freedom to walk around New York without bodyguards and limos. Most celebrities in New York did the same thing back then.

[@lawrencesiskind3554]

I agree. Many celebrities wanted, and still want, the freedom that New York affords. Since Lennon died at the hand of a crazy has nothing to do with the issue of mugging. I'm also a New Yorker. We all used to get mugged going to school on The Upper East Side. Nobody ever got hurt in my memory. Apologies to Etan Patz' family. It was a kid on kid thing. Poorer, tougher kids in the 70s used to take rich kids' money, watches, and bus passes (remember bus passes?). Times and politics were different. Uptown today seems as safe as a place could be! Adults, famous or not, seemed to be in little danger, at least during the day. We were all in mortal fear of getting caught in Central Park at night.

[@chrishyde1216]

Fascinating. Thank you for also not naming the "piece of garbage" nor including it in the photo. John spoke about feeling free to walk about New York and not be "bugged" by people. I'm surprised how many other celebrities, or people who previously knew him, have since referred to bumping into him in NY, so he was clearly regularly out and about. With proper security, and people checking around him, as in the case of other world leaders, we would not have lost this very special person. He would have loved social media and been all over it, and would have been great to read or hear his take on current political and other events. I think we would have seen much more of John.

[@jaw444]

it would have been great to have more songs by him as the years went on, more of his creative output, and his and yoko's art, as the world evolved around them. Maybe he and Paul would have done some new Lennon McCartney stuff. what could have been makes me sad, not only with John but with others who were gone much too soon. I don't begrudge John his lifestyle, John loved his freedom, he loved living in the heart of New York City. He enjoyed feeling at home there. It's not like this NYC was the only place John ever walked freely. He always did it, except in the days when fans would chase him to grab his hair. When that phase ended, he must've felt very free to move around. He did move around freely, he moved around LA freely during that era when he and Yoko were split, he was notorious for going with various friends very loaded to the Troubadour night club, making a lot of drunken noise and interrupting shows while people were trying to perform. And he and his friends would get thrown out, on the streets, where ever they wanted to go. It's not hard to understand why John didn't feel unsafe. He was safe when he recklessly moved around different places he was living .He was used to being safe. How many mark david chapmans are there? the guy was, is, a lunatic. John wasn't the only wealthy celebrity who went out

[@JPTLC674]

I passed John down in the West Village when I lived in New York, I was so shy I couldn’t speak but thrilled just the same! 🎼🙏💜☮️🎶

[@LucyLennon909]

I saw you on my google feed. Lovely presentation, thank you. I was at the Dakota and Strawberry Fields Memorial a couple yrs. ago. A vendor told me Yoko split for upstate N.Y. at the Covid breakout in 2019. And since then she has permanently left the Dakota for the 600 acre farm she & John purchased years ago. Yoko just turned 90 ...

[@doreenb3411]

I loved this video. I am a huge John Lennon fan and have been since I was very young. I am old enough to have followed the Beatles from their early days and remember the moment I learned of John’s passing. I watched another video of yours about the Dakota recently so was thrilled when I saw this one featuring John photos. I agree with your sentiment that John should have not walked around NYC as if he were just a “normal” guy. He was so much more than that and tragically the monster that took his life took advantage of John’s desire to just live his life. Thank you for sharing this, I subscribed.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thanks for checking it out. The Dakota is such an amazing building and it's a shame that all most people know about it is that is where Lennon died. I am glad to be doing my part to try to teach more about the building. Thanks for watching and subscribing. I appreciate it.

[@JeannieRandolph-j6i]

I lived a block from the Dakota and I used to see John and Yoko walking around the streets pretty regularly. I recognize some of those hats and jackets.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

That's really cool. I've spent much of my life on the Upper West Side.

[@aunch3]

John should’ve had security with him when he stepped out he was way too famous to just step outside. I get it’d be a pain but it’s better than being attacked

[@aunch3]

Edit: @Strange just got to the part where you agree with me in your video 💯 it’s crazy to think he just walked about like that

[@60sbaby456]

He said he liked New York because he felt free to walk around

[@StrangeHistoryX]

I still agree with you 100%. :)

[@MeTube3]

All the security in the world and presidents still get shot.

[@prp3231]

That's why elvis had several bodyguards. He once stated that there are some people out to get him because they want to become infamous by telling the world that he killed elvis. Elvis told his bodyguards not to spare his attacker if they should catch him.

[@Inmylife59]

Loved this. And thank you for not mentioning that idiots name! It drives me crazy when he is mentioned! And his picture is shown. That last picture of John signing the autograph is bad enough, but at least you took that creep out of it. Thank you. Great video .

[@StrangeHistoryX]

I am glad you liked it. Yeah, I don't understand why anyone mentions that loser's name or shows his photo. I won't ever do either.

[@rocker76m88]

​@@StrangeHistoryXThank you for that

[@andylucas1175]

Interesting photographic insight into life inside the Dakota with the Lennons.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thank you. I assumed that many others look at photos like I do. I am so glad you and others have enjoyed this.

[@Swat-ed5bt]

Love this video thnks for keeping the memory of peace and love alive. Rip John ❤

[@MrLifesavers1]

Great video! Thanks for providing a more in depth look into John's life at the Dakota. I agree with you about the fact that it was just too risky for John & Yoko to just walk around without security. Either way thanks for the great content!

[@donaldalbano6484]

I got to go inside the Dakota circa 1991 working for an air-conditioning company, there was a modeling shoot going on in one of the apartments (forgot which floor? one of the lower floors I believe) and they were having problems with the cooling. I was able to walk around fairly freely ,also in the inner courtyard and the entry where John was shot. Not many people are able to do that, unless you have reason to be in the building.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

That's really cool. It's amazing, isn't it. The first time I walked through the courtyard I could barely walk. I was in total awe. Loved every second of being there.

[@Robd07]

Thats cool to know. I heard YoKo now owns the entire floor of the bldg having bought out the tenants who were living on her floor.

[@steve3602]

I loved your narrative and the precious photos. You mentioned in your commentary that John often walked along freely in NYC as you described the picture of him and Yoko on the street corner. Your comment that there was no legitimate reason for John to make himself so available to the public is valid! But that was John. He knew the risks but he thought why would someone want to kill a Beatle? So he decided to act like a regular citizen and unfortunately we lost him as a result. You are 100% right - a celebrity of his stature walking around in public without protection was inviting a disaster. I will always love and admire John's great music and his idealism. Sometimes, unfortunately, the dark reality of this world gets in the way. That was foreign to John. He always favored dreaming of a perfect world over the reality. I hope and pray he is now in that idealistic world he envisioned.

[@marsrideroneofficial]

in Cynthia Lennon's book: John, she said after John's Jesus comment they received a letter from a psychic saying John will be shot in New York and both were scared. As time went on, John became complacent around strangers.

[@LennonToby]

Wow absolutely loved this. Thank you so much for putting all this together with amazing narrative. Best 22 mins and 9 seconds on you tube! Best wishes.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Wow, thank you!

[@jaymo8206]

Im a former New Yorker who as a teen would hang out in front of the Dakota waiting to meet John. I never did but several years after John's death I met Yoko in Central Park. A thing about New Yorkers and celebrities who live there is that there this understanding between the two that famous rich people can have normal lives in public and not worry about being hassled. John touched on this aspect of New Yorkers too. Unfortunately, it was an outsider that December night that took.John away from us.

[@jamesduclos2545]

Great video! Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to produce it and share it with us.

[@annanikia7949]

I love the photo with Julian, he was so not welcomed by Yoko. He looks so cute here. He was talented like his dad (and looked like him too!)

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Yeah, and Julian was a big star in the 80s, too. Sounded just like his dad.

[@bobma6342]

This video was good but it had way too many commercials

[@leslieclipp9303]

She pretended to be so deep, being so cold is so darn shallow, among other things…

[@michaelfleming40]

Julian was more than able to rise above the situation created beautiful music. 😊❤

[@richardelarmo8379]

Yoko,was warned by John's bodyguard during the holidays the crazies come out n suggested security should be stepped up,Yoko's reply were hear to sell records n nothing else....Maybe Yoko had something to do with John's mishap? Which should been easy to prevent but Yokob being the Control freak got it in the end when got killed they did wind up selling more records,go figure...

[@annette2326]

My entire childhood was a movie with a Beatles soundtrack. I woke up one morning to go to work and was greeted with the news that John was dead. I was 23. I worked in NYC and left work early to go to the Dakota. I tried to be as small as possible because I knew that Yoko and Sean must be in such pain, but, I was in such a state of disbelief and lonely despair that I couldn't think of anything else to do. Soon tv trucks came. That part was awful. I really stopped listening to the Beatles that day. It was just too painful. It was my first death, you see. When my son was a baby, years and years after, the only songs that I knew all the words to were Beatle songs. He loved them. He loved and loves the Yellow Submarine movie. It's a double edged feeling. Knowing how talented and wonderful those guys were and how they made the world a better place and the sadness that John and now George weren't here to enjoy this one part of their legacy. I wanted the Beatles to be the soundtrack for my whole life. Who ever expected media to be the way it is now. Not I. Every album was a gift on am radio. Every song a hit. The beginning of music videos. For whatever complications-- it was a way simpler time. RIP John and George.

[@juliemartin6280]

Your narrative is fantastic I feel like I’m walking along with a friend the photos the incredible descriptions…..I loved the Elvis pin on Lennon’s coat as I am a huge fan Thank you so much !

[@janettepolt2815]

I really miss John Lennon.

[@annanikia7949]

Wow, what a trip back in time! I really appreciate it! Great details of the Dakota, wonderful photos!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Many thanks! I love talking about the Dakota. I have plenty more images to share, too. :)

[@NickNicometi]

@@StrangeHistoryX Please share. Thanks.

[@jimoncken6936]

Wow, you make me feel like I'm listening to an old friend. I love your narration. You are a cool guy! 😊

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Wow, thanks! Those are really kind words. Stay tuned, lots more videos coming down the pike!

[@jujulionesselsa1416]

​@@StrangeHistoryX Really enjoying this thank you so much, I loved John so much and he is dearly missed. The photos are wonderful and they make me so sentimental. Love your narration. 😊 So happy there are more photos to follow. 😊

[@StrawberrySoul77]

This is fantastic! Thank you for sharing these as well as the narration❣️🎶🎸💟

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you!

[@johnangela1933]

I live on 71 st, between cpw and Columbus Ave,i walk by the Dakota everyday,its a really nice looking building

[@cindylou2128]

He asked me if I had change for a $20 one day in NYC. Cabs at that time wanted exact change and wherever he was going was less than $20..he was a regular person.

[@garyhoffman503]

Great commentary. Excellent care, yup, he was over his fame and was just enjoying being John Lennon.

[@CCServices84]

Thank you for not mentioning the name or showing the likeness of the bum who had no other purpose in life but to cause harm to another human being. There is enough schadenfreude in this world without glorifying bad behavior, so thank you for showing that respect.

[@iracknads]

Jose Perdomo killed Lenin. He was a CIA assassin who did a lot of work in Cuba in the '60s. He was the doorman at The Dakota that night and it was the only shift he ever worked there. Chapman was an MK Ultra patsy. He never shot a gun in his chubby life! Research it and you'll find it's true.

[@BeautifulFlower62]

I agree.

[@JLBiddle]

That IS the likeness of the bum in the photo and reason caught.

[@rocker76m88]

I totally agree

[@dawnadriennetaylor970]

That mind controlled creature didn't act alone.

[@aliciazagelbaum8347]

Love this great information on John!

[@Proud_Texan]

Thank you for these great picture.

[@gabrielfanin1412]

All the photos are pretty cool.Great job

[@tomasgrounauer6180]

Beautiful pictures, many of which I’ve never seen before. Thank you for your work, it shows that it is made out of loving appreciation of his life. 👍🏻

[@russellaycock3703]

Wonderful to see these photos, thank you. Like all of us I remember that dreadful day in December 1980 and think what might have been.

[@marianoismann7227]

Oh my ... adorable!!!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@lancehuff2174]

He was such a beautiful soul his kindness and generosity came natural to him for him to not be among the people just wasn’t his way it’s sad how it took someone to sit right under his nose after enjoying his freedom among so many that loved him to be taken the way he was. Well done on all your work it was very much appreciated.

[@josemanuelaguirre3272]

Greetings from Panamá 🇵🇦 I’m really glad to watch your work. Is amazing for me because I’m a fan of John and I had the opportunity to be there twice in 2015 and 2017. I really love how NYC remember John and hope so return soon. Thanks again.

[@jakessmallengines]

Great video of John's life ....some pictures that have never been seen !! A+ Thx

[@dianej1714]

This is a great video. I love the pictures. I remember being aware that John walked around the city freely, but I don't think I connected that fact with the circumstances around his death. It feels like he probably had hated all the security in the early days of the Beatles. He definitely wanted to be free of that. Thanks for your work.

[@aceopinions]

As a lifelong Beatles and JL fan, these were absolutely captivating, Hoping for more if you can get them. Your narration was superb - interesting and easy to follow. The one of Julian (9 or 10 I am guessing) is interesting, as I never knew Julian saw John at the Dakota. One point you drove home on one of the shots was your comments on John roaming around without any body guard protection. I could not agree more!!!! He was reckless in that regard, and particularly in a place like NYC. Sure, you can lost in the crowd if you are an ordinary person , but not when you are someone that is instantly recognizable as one of the most famous and photographed people in the world. He needed a Mal Evans like the early days. Although a genius, John clearly exercised poor judgement at times in his public life. This one tragically cost him his life. Thanks again and can't wait for more if you can get them!!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

thanks. I'm so glad you liked the video. I have folders with so many great images of the Dakota, some rarely if ever seen. I'll keep making videos as long as people keep watching. And probably even if they don't. Thanks for taking the tie to comment. I appreciate it.

[@Joe44944]

You know, first of all thanks so much for sharing all this with us! I'm a huge Beatles fan, John Lennon and Paul McCartney! I've been in front of the Dakota building exactly where John was tragically murdered. Sad, very sad. It makes me not want to be there, live there. I'm curious if other people feel like that.

[@curtisandersongayle7435]

Thanks for this. I was nearby the next day on the way to high school. Thanks for doing this. It is much appreciated.

[@keithbertschin1213]

So interesting, your commentary is amazing

[@Skedawg88]

Great photos! It is interesting to note that Sean, shown early on as a baby is now older by quite a few years than John when he was murdered.

[@Pedro91795]

20 years older!

[@felicia2463]

Fantastic work!!!

[@mirrlamp]

Thank you for not showing that evil creature who so brutally took John's life. I agree with you regarding John thinking he could just walk around like he did but that piece of filth had no right to do what he did. It breaks my heart thinking about what happened to John and I hope he's looking down and seeing how much he is loved and missed.

[@paulmanhart4481]

He had every right selling that last photo of John. No problem from me.

[@ScottA140]

Love how he has Elvis on his lapel of black coat from 3mins to 3:46 Just listened to a couple Elvis songs "If I Can Dream" and "A little less Conversation" without knowing I was going to tap on this video. Always love Both of them and Yes, Jagger rounds out my top 3 of all time

[@oceanside88]

Brilliant work here🥂

[@Willsontime]

Great VDO. Thanks.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@cynthiasuzanne]

very cool. thanks for putting this together!

[@stevemora7845]

Awesome and beautiful photos 🙏❤

[@Lopersgezwets]

Great storytelling!!!!

[@bobwunderlich2212]

Strange story but true. About a week or so before his death, I was working in the Dakota for my boss. I got lost in the building and came upon two men in front of an apartment. One was well dressed and one was in a bathrobe. I asked them both for directions before the man in the robe eased the well dressed man to the side and started to tell me how to get to where I wanted to go. As he was giving me directions, I thought he looked familiar but as a shorter man and in a bathrobe I didn't put 2 and two together. I thanked him and found my way back to my bosses apt. I asked him if John Lennon lived here and he said yes he did. I was somewhat shaking and said to him that I just talked to him; to which he murmured a "big deal". I worked with my boss in the Dakota all that week so I did see John a few times during that week. Interesting week for me to say the least,

[@goleson100]

I appreciate your integrity with the topic. Also, you hooked me with your shout out for animals! ❤

[@lewismusser7184]

I lived on the upper West Side from 1977 to 1992, and you are so right about the scene on the streets in the 70s I mean, it was literally like "Taxi Driver", so precautions simply were a must, especially for someone like John! I visited the shrine at the Dakota entrance immediately following the horrid incident and was at the memorial in Central Park the following Sunday 😢I was also lucky enough to be at the invitation only dedication of Strawberry 🍓 Fields, and saw Yoko, Julian and little Sean,a memory I will always treasure. and, hey, here's a bonus One hot summer day, I actually encountered Ray Davies of the Kinks and spoke to him right there on the sidewalk at the Dakota's entrance and he told me when the "Low Budget" tour would commence! New York City ---just no place like it! No wonder John loved it so. And the City loved him back!!

[@melindawakley7859]

Wow. So Taxi Driver the movie is quite realistic. I love that movie. I read that actor Robert DeNiro worked as a NY taxi Driver for awhile so he could do it convincingly. I really admire his level of acting. He owns a movie when he’s in it.

[@Roku177]

I think John knew that it was naive to not have bodyguards and extra precautions. As I'm sure it was a sense of euphoria a high feeling if you will for him. There is the story of him picking out his jacket on his own and he reportedly said "I couldn't believe it! I'm actually picking up my own jacket!!" So there was definitely a strong sense of liberation he got from it and with John not just being a huge fan of the people but also an advocate of the people, it starts makes sense why his reasoning was off. Also most of his normal city walking time was during his retirement years and I think as Double Fantasy continued to become a success along with him being back in the Limelight again, I feel like he would of eventually chosen to have some guards around is my bet, just too little to late sadly.

[@morrisonreed1]

John said something to the affect of ' most people leave me alone but, I get recognized just enough to help my ego ". hind sight is 20/20 , we all hate it that hes gone .NYC is always tricky but it can be navigated .Most of the places John frequented were relatively safe , for the most part .He didn't stroll the sketchy areas asking for change for a 100 . if you live in NYC you know what I mean .

[@pamcornelius9122]

Much like JFK, Jr.

[@skipjoens]

Great job! Enjoyed watching this..

[@StrangeHistoryX]

I am so glad. Thanks for watching.

[@midfielder8131]

This is a good video. There is a good spirit and respect behind it. Approved!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

I appreciate that!

[@adriennealexander1509]

The book called Time and Again by Jack Finney. Time travel set in the Dakota. An unforgettable story.

[@sharonc9348-f7e]

I love Love LOVE Time and Again! How cool would it be if you could use the Dakota now in 2023 to launch back to 1980 and change the course of history?

[@cojaysea]

You’ve got a point about walking around so free and easy , Frank Sinatra for example had a full mob with him IF he even walked . I worked in Manhattan on west 66 th street for ABC for years and I always looked for him along with Isaac Asimov who lived on CPW . Now they’re both dead . The night John was killed I remember driving in to Manhattan and parking my car on west 68th street later on walking up to the Dakota . Terrible day .

[@tiffanyroseangeles34]

I love history ! John Lennon as most of us Brits or related to) have a unique sense of fashion. Ref mostly to the pic with John with shoulder length hair Elvis” jacket the Scottish style cap on his head….what I’ve noticed through these series so far of photos…IS JOHN LOOKING SO HAPPY! Yes,love to see a young Julian Lennon w his Dad! I forever wondered before he got brutally murdered ,the precise same thing! Add on his strong POLITICAL VIEWS SOME SAY THEY GREW POT AS WELL.( Don’t quote me,it was something I read] I love to see John just relaxing alone w his feet up I HATED SEEING CHAPMAN GETTING HIS ALBUM SIGNED John so vulnerable So kindly. All you need is love he likely thought signed the album. I feel Paul’s situation. He ended up the HERO! In my eyes. I loved John very very much .I’ve been to NYC once. BEFORE THIS OCCURED But in my humble opinion I think he should’ve had a bodyguard! Oh im thrilled about you spoke about the sheltered animals! Like you know me ❤ I adopted my gorge cat now she’s 14 happy healthy lady ! 🫶🕊️🇬🇧😸if I could I’d save them all. Animal love is most perfect So unproblematic and humans ? Well, I adore my music im in my 60s But …..animals and writing giving my creative outlet that. All us human beings essentially need to. find. No, I Never go on Instagram Im not a Model wait …I just woke up like ONE🎉MY CAT TOLD ME!😊

[@Weyjx]

Great video if i can go back in time . I would definitely do all i can to change this horrible event . I love john always will .

[@katiecollison6629]

The photo of John & Julian it was taken by Nishi F. Saimaru & its in book of photos called the John Lennon family album which I have a copy of. It days a the beginning theze photo's were not intended for the public,then itwas decided to release the photos in 1990 by Chronicle Books of San Francisco. I hope this helps who ever is interested

[@MrLouisfine]

Thank you for this upload.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

You're welcome. Thanks for checking it out.

[@MrLouisfine]

@@StrangeHistoryX Do you still live in New York City? I plan to go there soon or later. Laurent, Toulouse, France.

[@allencollins6031]

Tastefully done. Much appreciated. Thanks. Another NY'er.

[@AC-zx4hd]

Amazing how John was such a chameleon over his life with his facial hair and hairstyles over the years, almost sometimes looking like a completely different human. Yet in the end, his final look almost returned him right back to 1965.

[@Tav57]

Great video. Wonderful commentary. Thanks for posting!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thanks for checking it out. I appreciate it.

[@BeautifulFlower62]

Thank you. I met Julian. Very sweet. Cool boots!!

[@toniconnor6380]

This was great, thank you

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thank you for the kind words.

[@Yellyman-j3h]

Fantastic video:)

[@chuckyoneill9029]

What beautiful photos,iwas 20 when he passed away, thanks,liked and subscribed and shared

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thank you for subscribing. So many new people are joining and I really appreciate that. I have a lot more videos on the way.

[@chuckyoneill9029]

@@StrangeHistoryX I'll be watching, thanks.

[@JimNavarro]

That photo at 16:30. Had to be taken around December '80, check out the double fantasy cover photo pasted on the left wall, a demo cover photo waiting for Yoko's approval? There's also a calendar, but it's blurry

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thank you. Thant helps a lot. Excellent observation.

[@stellabythesea1492]

Sleuthy !

[@kimberlyroberson5400]

Double Fantasy came out three weeks before John was murdered.

[@dino_j]

Thank you, I hope more photos turn up, it's great to see where John Lennon LIVED, as you pointed out, not where we was killed. His murder was not the Dakota's fault, and honestly, regarding your commentary in the middle about how famous he was, it's sort of surprising that he wasn't attacked earlier.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Yep, it is surprising he wasn't attacked earlier. And it might not have even had anything to do with his fame, but on the other hand, it could have. John Lennon was a musical genius. We all know that, but he clearly lacked some basic common sense or was naive. This is not a slight against him. He was famous since he was about 21 years old. he just didn't know what "normal" was. It's too bad he didn't have anyone around to tell him. He could have easily lived on Long Island and gone into NYC anytime he wanted. Walking the streets like a commoner was ridiculous. And I say this as a life-long New Yorker.

[@jamesduclos2545]

Perhaps it was John's upbringing in Liverpool that made him walk about town in New York City like he did? @@StrangeHistoryX

[@Joe44944]

​@@StrangeHistoryXl think you're absolutely right, things are better in some ways than it was back then but heck NYC isn't and never will be like London or Paris. If you are rich and famous here than get yourself some armored limo and plenty of excellent body guards, keep your whereabouts a secret and hope that's enough b/c there's plenty of guns and whack jobs around. Yeap, sad but true.

[@ruidejaneiro2353]

Beautiful photos!

[@susancorgi]

Wow so many rare photos here. thanks this priceless video 👏👏👏 many times it crossed my mind what if john stayed in a big private house in uk, he may still be alive for decades more. Walking around nyc like regular guy and regularly surely not smart for him i agree.

[@spadescalimero]

The pictures and the commentary are excellent indeed, superb job.

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Thank you so much 😀

[@thomosburn8740]

at 9:26 - that's the Sony CF-580 cassette recorder that John used to make his demos of "Real Love", "Free As A Bird", "Now & Then", etc. The built-in mono condenser mic captured the piano and voice at the same time (which caused the Beatles a lot of technical problems when they went to turn those demos into records with John on lead vocal!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Very observant. It's amazing that JL didn't have a more professional setup at home. I mean, Buddy Holly had a better set-up in 1959 then Lennon did in 1980. This surprised me.

[@markdinkel-uh2je]

Thanks for posting. Grew up with John & the Beatles . Love them to this day and God bless Yoko and the children of John + heartfelt sympathy for George Paul & Ringo losing their friend and fellow musician. I'm sure they would've recorded again.🎸🥁🪘 22:09

[@StrangeHistoryX]

Yeah, I think sooner or later they probably would have hooked up again. MTV music videos would have been too tempting. They would have been all over MTV in the early days.

[@markdinkel-uh2je]

@@StrangeHistoryX would've been awesome 🎸🎸🎸🪘🥁

[@stellabythesea1492]

Thanks!

[@StrangeHistoryX]

You bet! I appreciate your kind support.