In the world of music, John Lennon is a revered figure, known for his exceptional talent as a musician, singer, and songwriter.
As a member of The Beatles, Lennon left an indelible mark on history, captivating audiences with his timeless compositions and messages of love and peace.
Amidst rumors of a feud between The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, John Lennon decided to play a prank on Brian Jones, one of the members of The Rolling Stones.
Despite their friendly relationship and Lennon’s admiration for Jones’ musical talent, he couldn’t resist using their connection as an opportunity for some amusement.
Lennon managed to convince Jones that the police were about to arrest him, leaving the Stones’ member caught in the web of this mischievous prank.
When it came to his car, Lennon didn’t settle for ordinary.
He customized it with unique features, including a record player, a horn that played the serenade of Lilli Marlene, and an ingenious addition – a microphone with speakers in the front wheel wells.
This allowed Lennon to engage with the outside world, surprising pedestrians with his playful and inventive antics.
Lennon also used the microphone to play pranks on his friends and acquaintances.
Whenever he spotted someone he knew while driving, he couldn’t resist using the speaker system to communicate directly with them, adding a touch of mischief to their interactions.
On one particular occasion, Lennon saw Brian Jones in his car and couldn’t resist having a bit of fun at his expense.
Paul McCartney recalls the moment in The Beatles Anthology, saying, “Once we were going through Regent’s Park on our way to North London to do a session.
We were in John’s Rolls and we’d just come from his house in Weybridge.
Suddenly we pulled up behind Brian Jones, who was sitting quietly in the back of his Austin Princess.
John was a very funny guy, and he shouted through the microphone: ‘Brian Jones, do not move!
You have been under surveillance – you are under arrest!'”
While McCartney and Lennon found the prank amusing, Jones didn’t share the same sense of humor and didn’t find it nearly as funny.
The prank likely hit close to home for Jones, considering his history of run-ins with the law.
In 1967, he faced his first arrest when drugs were discovered in his residence, making law enforcement a sensitive topic for him.
In 1968, Jones encountered another brush with the law, this time for cannabis possession.
Fortunately, a compassionate judge decided on a fine rather than jail time.
Given his history of drug use and prior arrests, it’s understandable why Jones might have believed that the police were after him.
John Lennon’s prank may have left Brian Jones terrified, but it highlights Lennon’s playful nature and his ability to bring laughter even in unexpected situations.
Lennon’s legacy as a musical genius and advocate for peace remains untarnished, but his mischievous side will always be remembered as well.
