Cillian Murphy Calls This John Lennon Album “Perfect”—Find Out Why

Acclaimed actor Cillian Murphy has never hidden his passion for music. Known not only for his acting chops but also for his discerning taste in tunes, Murphy frequently cites the Beatles and their iconic frontman John Lennon as foundational to his musical sensibilities. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the Irish star shared his admiration for Lennon’s seminal solo album, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, hailing it as a near-flawless collection of songs.

Murphy’s connection to Lennon’s music runs deep. “I’m a Beatles fanatic, a Beatles nut,” he said. “I have been ever since I was very young. My dad has been playing the Beatles since I was tiny.” This lifelong affinity for the Fab Four led Murphy to explore their post-breakup solo ventures, ultimately landing him on Lennon’s debut solo album, released in 1970. “It’s probably one of my favorite records of all time,” he confessed. “Probably my favorite solo Beatles record.”

For Murphy, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band stands out not only because of its musical brilliance but also due to the raw emotion behind its creation. “He was going through this kind of primal scream therapy at the time,” Murphy explained. “He was just 29 or 30; they’d just broken up.” That sense of upheaval permeates the album’s tracks, many of which reflect Lennon’s introspection and vulnerability. Murphy singles out songs like “God,” “Mother,” and “Isolation” as particularly compelling, praising the contributions of Ringo Starr on drums and Klaus Voormann on bass as integral to the album’s sound. “Every single song on it is perfect and beautiful,” he said.

Despite its critical acclaim, Murphy believes the album remains underappreciated, even as it continues to resonate deeply with him. “I think it’s an underappreciated record, but I go back to it over and over again,” he admitted.

Murphy’s endorsement of John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band is yet another reminder of Lennon’s enduring legacy. Nearly 55 years after its release, the album still captivates listeners—among them a talented actor whose own creative pursuits have been profoundly influenced by its timeless artistry.