There Was A Show About Finding The Next John Lennon

Imagine getting to channel one of music’s biggest legends, John Lennon, night after night. That’s the opportunity Gaz Keenan chased when The Upbeat Beatles, a top Beatles tribute band, went looking for their next John Lennon. The role wasn’t just about playing music—it required charisma, talent, and even a solid Liverpudlian accent to bring the iconic Beatle to life.

Gaz, a natural fit for the role with his Lennon-like look and sound, stepped into the spotlight in ITV’s The Big Audition in 2018. The show followed his journey to prove he was the right person to keep Lennon’s spirit alive on stage.

From the Factory to the Fab Four

By day, Gaz worked at an automobile factory, a job he’d held for 17 years. But his heart was always in music. “I love my job, but music has always been my first love,” Gaz said. When a friend tagged him in a Facebook post about the Lennon audition, he knew he had to go for it. “John Lennon? I thought, ‘Why not have a go at that!’”

For weeks, Gaz practiced for hours daily, honing his skills to match Lennon’s unique style. With his Merseyside roots giving him an edge, Gaz joked, “If someone asks me what I do for a living, I’d love to say, ‘I’m John Lennon.’”

A Magical Lennon Performance

At the audition, Gaz poured his heart into a stunning acoustic version of “Norwegian Wood.” His performance felt effortless, capturing Lennon’s charm and voice with uncanny accuracy. “You look and sound just like him,” one judge remarked, clearly impressed.

The Upbeat Beatles, already known for their authentic tributes to the Fab Four, were thrilled to have Gaz on board. Fans of the band rave about how their performances transport them back to The Beatles’ heyday.

For Gaz, the experience is more than just a gig—it’s a chance to live his dream and bring Lennon’s magic to audiences everywhere.

Watch the video below: