I agree to an extent about Imagine. But then I've found most Beatles music really not that interesting unless it is performed by great singers.
They laid down the foundation of rock/modern day pop and wrote AMAZING songs. I cannot deny that. But for example if I listen to "With a little help from my friends" by the Beatles:
I find that utterly boring and almost drained from any emotion whatsoever.
Compare that to Joe Cocker...
Amazing I think. I've seen him live once and it is more memorable than all I've ever heard of The Beatles themselves put together.
Same goes for their song HELP.
Compare the original to Tina TUrner's amazing version here.
THe original sounds like the chipmunks imo.
Tina's renditions sends shivers down my spine and she really brings the words to life.
I know it is usually much easier to copy and improve on something that already exists but I really do think Beatles as performers were always overhyped.
Same goes for "Imagine"; great song, uninteresting performance by John Lennon. Last week that 16 year old Irish boy did it on X Factor and I thought it was one of the most boring renditions and most boring X Factor performances EVER (even though it lasted 90 seconds or so)!. I cannot believe that an artist like that would sell millions of records whilst there are countless of 16 year old boys who can sing like that. Tell the truth Simon!