New John Lennon Footage Shows ‘Instant Karma!’ Performance From Upcoming ‘Power to the People’ Film

A long-lost concert moment from John Lennon is stepping back into the spotlight, offering a closer look at one of the rare times he returned to a full live stage after his band years ended. The newly released clip brings fresh attention to a performance that had remained largely unseen for decades, now carefully restored for modern audiences.

The footage centers on “Instant Karma!,” one of Lennon’s early solo releases, which climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. While the song has been widely recognized over the years, this live version presents a different energy, shaped by the atmosphere of a packed arena and a moment that carried weight beyond music alone.

A Rare Stage Return Preserved

The performance comes from the upcoming concert film Power to the People, which documents a pair of shows held in August 1972 at Madison Square Garden. These concerts stand out in Lennon’s timeline, as they were his only full-length live appearances following the breakup of The Beatles in 1970.

On stage, Lennon was joined by Yoko Ono along with the Plastic Ono Band and Elephant’s Memory, creating a lineup that reflected both his evolving sound and his collaborative spirit at the time. The concerts also featured guest appearances from artists like Stevie Wonder and Sha Na Na, adding variety to the event.

Music With a Purpose

Beyond the performances themselves, the shows carried a clear mission. The events raised more than $1.5 million for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, tying the music to a broader cause. That purpose shaped the tone of the night, giving the performances a sense of urgency and meaning that went beyond entertainment.

The newly released clip follows an earlier preview featuring “Imagine,” offering another glimpse into how these concerts will be presented in the film. Each segment highlights a different side of Lennon’s stage presence during that period, from reflective moments to more driving, high-energy songs.

Restoring a Historic Night

The film has undergone a full restoration process, with audio and visuals carefully updated to match current standards. The work was overseen by Sean Ono Lennon, who led the effort to bring the footage back with clarity while preserving its original feel.

Power to the People is scheduled for a limited theatrical release beginning April 29, giving audiences a chance to experience these performances on the big screen. Tickets are already available, marking the return of a concert event that had remained out of reach for many fans until now