How John Lennon Misjudged 4 Beatles Songs That He Disliked

John Lennon was a genius songwriter—but also his own worst critic. Known for being brutally honest, especially about his own work and that of his bandmates, Lennon never held back when he didn’t like something. That included a handful of Beatles songs, some of which fans (and frankly, common sense) still adore today. Let’s revisit a few tracks Lennon famously disliked—and why maybe he judged them a bit too harshly.

1. “It’s Only Love”
Lennon once said, “That’s the one song I really hate of mine. Terrible lyric.” He was talking about “It’s Only Love,” a song from Help! that didn’t even get a proper single release. It eventually landed on the U.S. version of Rubber Soul, but Lennon always thought it was weak.

Honestly, this one isn’t as bad as he made it out to be. Sure, it’s not revolutionary, but it’s far from awful. If we’re being picky, “Run for Your Life” deserves way more criticism—and even Lennon agreed that one missed the mark. But “It’s Only Love” is a soft, sweet tune with a classic Beatles vibe.

2. “Paperback Writer”
This 1966 single was a chart-topper in both the U.K. and U.S., yet Lennon brushed it off as unoriginal. “‘Paperback Writer’ is son of ‘Day Tripper’, but it is Paul’s song,” he said. “Son of ‘Day Tripper’ meaning a rock and roll song with a guitar lick on a fuzzy, loud guitar.”

Yes, it follows a similar formula. But that catchy guitar riff, the harmony vocals, and the clever lyrics about a struggling writer? It’s pure pop-rock gold. Even if it didn’t break new ground, it still stands tall in the Beatles’ catalog.

3. “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds”
Now this one’s a shocker. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is one of the most celebrated albums ever, and “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” is one of its most iconic tracks. Still, Lennon had a bone to pick with how the recording turned out.

“It’s abysmal, you know? The track is just terrible. I mean, it is a great track, a great song, but it isn’t a great track because it wasn’t made right. You know what I mean?”

Actually, no—we don’t know what you mean, John. This song is a dreamy masterpiece. The imagery, the melody, the psychedelic arrangement—it’s all timeless. Maybe Lennon just had higher expectations, but most fans would agree this one hits just right.

4. “Let It Be”
“Let It Be” is one of Paul McCartney’s most beloved songs, and it served as a powerful close to The Beatles’ chapter together. But Lennon felt it sounded more like a Wings song than a Beatles one.

“That’s Paul,” he said. “What can you say? Nothing to do with The Beatles. It could’ve been Wings. I don’t know what he’s thinking when he writes ‘Let It Be’. That’s my feeling, although I have nothing to go on. I know he wanted to write a ‘Bridge Over Troubled Waters’.”

To be fair, Lennon wasn’t wrong about its solo-style vibe. “Let It Be” is deeply McCartney, through and through. But that doesn’t take away from its beauty or emotional weight. It may not scream “Beatles” to Lennon, but to fans, it feels like the perfect farewell.

The Verdict? Lennon Was a Bit Too Tough

There’s no question that Lennon had an unmatched eye for what worked musically. But even the greats can be overly critical—especially of their own art. Whether it was self-doubt, ego, or just his sharp tongue, Lennon sometimes missed the magic in songs that millions still adore today.