Collider ranks John Lennon’s 10 best non-Beatles songs — 'Give Peace a Chance' tops list

Collider published a ranking on Jan. 30, 2026 in which writer J.S. Gornael lists what he calls John Lennon’s 10 best non-Beatles songs, with commentary on each track. Gornael says the selections are ranked by “emotional power and creativity,” and the piece highlights Lennon’s work with the Plastic Ono Band and other solo releases beyond the familiar hits.

The article notes that while songs like "Imagine" remain widely known, Lennon’s post-Beatles catalog contains many underappreciated tunes. The top four on the list are led by the single "Give Peace a Chance" at No. 1, praised for its grounded, sing‑along chorus and rallying message.

No. 2 is Lennon's cover of "Stand By Me," called one of the greatest covers ever, and No. 3 is the holiday classic "Happy X‑mas (War Is Over)," noted for its children’s choir and acoustic warmth. "Imagine" appears at No. 4 and is described as an iconic, gently melancholic rock ballad.

The mid- and lower-tier entries include "#9 Dream" (No. 5), celebrated for its psychedelic, dreamlike quality; "I Don't Wanna Be a Soldier, Mama" (No. 6), which Gornael says rocks harder; "Instant Karma! (We All Shine On)" (No. 7) with its springy piano and claps; "Power to the People" (No.

john lennon best non-beatles, give peace a chance, stand by me cover, happy x-mas (war is over), imagine song, #9 dream, i don't wanna be a soldier, instant karma! (we all shine on), power to the people, plastic ono band songs, collider john lennon ranking, mind games song, i'm losing you