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IMAGINE - Preview Screening (Patreon)

Published:
2024-08-01 00:35:01
Imported:
2026-09
Tags:

Content

Obviously, this song needs no introduction, but i'm gonna wax poetic here for a moment anyhow.

It's a little hard to believe that John and Yoko wrote this song 50 years ago and that I was only a wee lad at the time. (You shouldn't believe that last part).

The message of "Imagine" is still as relevant today as it was when it was written in 1971, and the fact that we're all still listening to it, singing it, and singing along to it is a testament to our shared humanity.

This is a gorgeous song and hopefully i've done it justice.

ENJOY!

-G

Files

Comments

Tracie Schlaak

Excellent choice. ❤️❤️❤️

Kourtney Frantz

Absolutely…..STUNNING!!! Beautiful arrangement, Geoff!! ❤️

Lynn M

Well that was not on my bingo card, but you are right the message is one we still need. Will comment more after I get a chance to listen, but I have absolute trust in your skill.

Cara K

Phenomenal. Needs to be made a real Utopia. If only.

Cécile Roussey

Listening to your beautiful performance, Geoff, my heart was beating and it was too good ^^ I loved it <3 Thank you Geoff ! ^^

Dorothy Rosenberg

Gee, just watched this on YouTube premiere. Voila! It’s here on Patreon! Yes, you more than gave it justice. Thank you for this gift.

Laura Pilkington

pretty! hope the prop piano was tuned this time

Ashley Evers

I love when you do things no one has asked you for 😁 I want to hear your take on everything, especially things that don't automatically scream bass singer.

Melissa Elliott

Such a lovely spin on this beautiful song. There were a few moments where I found myself holding my breath I was so lost in the new directions you took in the music.

Shirley Major

When Geoff said John Lennon and that there had been no requests I was sure it would be “Beautiful Boy”. Imagine is my second favorite Lennon song…. Maybe he would be interested to cover Beautiful Boy as well?

Sherry Thomas

OMG!!! Such a beautiful rendition of this song! I should have had tissues nearby. Thank you for covering a song that we did not know we need.

Melissa Glyn-Jones

Oh man!!! How is it that every time you create my new favourite? This is absolutely beautiful.

Maggie S

Excellent! Thank you. I was in high school when this song was released. Still holds special meaning for me.

candi lunsford

And you said Cesar made you cry. *sniff sniff* That was so beautiful!

Angie Woollard

Didn't take you for a waxer but okay, you do you... ;) You've MORE than done it justice, Geoff! You've stayed true to the original while putting your own spin on it and I just find that so amazing. I can't wait to dig into this a few more times to see what you've done to make it tick! (For one...those last couple of chords...HELLO...) Hello I'm back. An Eb major?? in a song in the key of C?? How? HOW do you come up with these deliciously tasty unexpected chord progressions?? *dies of happiness* The part where the huge chorus comes in reminds me, symbolically, of perhaps All The People coming together. Imagine there's no countries...

Crisstina Joubert

You are such a BLESSING to hear, thank you!!!❤️

LaRae

I love your version, Geoff! Everything about it is beautiful. ❤️

Sofia Alfenito

100% justice done (i don’t know the original) beautiful!!!!

Sue Armstrong

You definitely did it justice! Absolutely beautiful!

Édua Elster

Imagine, oh my god. I would never request such a song, because it seems intouchable. Wonderful choice in this times. Its perfect. Its not that Long time ago, that I was able to understand this song. So it touches me now even more.

Silv E

That was so beautiful. I have tears in my eyes. <3

Marie Galaxy

One of my favorite songs of all time! You definitely did it justice!! How could you not? Excellent singer/piano player, excellent song choice, excellent arrangement. 😻😽💜💚

Marie-Christine Fournier

Wonderful! If that doesn't become a massive hit, youtube is just crazy.. Thank you for this amazing piece!

Amelia

Every time. You do such a great job with arrangements and vocals. Thank you for a new song to listen to. :)

Shirley27

Having the courage to do a cover of John Lennon’s most popular song most people would shy away from. I’m glad Geoff had the courage and did a fantastic job too. As usual Geoff didn’t try to ‘copy’ but made it his own. I loved it.

Sarah Borzelli

Oh Geoff, I'm sitting here teary eyed... *swallows* You're right, thank you for your beautiful words, I agree, it's a testament to our shared humanity! Such beautiful words sung in such a heartfelt manner, Geoff - it's just beautiful! I love all the pleasant changes you made, such gorgeous chords in it. I also love that high part, it's like you were screaming at the world to remind us to be kind and connect. Thank you Geoff!

Utahjoey

Just... so good

Karen & Lauren

Well now my comment is relevant, so I'll just add it here.... "that was more than four chords".

Huldra Draco

This is absolutely gorgeous, Geoff! 🥰🥰🥰 That layered part at around 4 minutes in this video sounds a bit...hm...how to describe it.. a bit too muddy maybe..? But other than that this was a very refreshing take on this classic! Love when you go outside of the "request box" and do something that YOU feel like doing! ❤️❤️❤️

James Yang

Wow this is so good!! Thank you for sharing this beautiful version!!❤️❤️

Mark Vince

Justice was done. Awesome work.

Lacy McCloud

This was so good that I don't even have words yet! I'll be back when I come up with something coherent to say ❤️

DocSavage

Guess I was either prescient or picking up on your psychic vibe when in an earlier comment shared the hope that someday you’d offer a song not based on fan requests, but rather a song that spoke to you. That someday is today. Perfect rendition, perfect timing. Just perfect. Just perfectly Geoff. Thanks and blessings on you.

Marie DesJardin

I love how the beautiful setting recalls the original John Lennon Imagine video. Thank you for the call, Geoff. You are definitely not the only dreamer.

Maryse B

Woh you cut my legs... I falling... Yes falling In love... again. GEOFF!!! S.O.S... come on man... you are... you're INCROYABLE. THANK YOU X 1 000 000. GIVE MY BACK MY LEG NOW!

Michelle and Quincy

That was so beautiful! Geoff, one request; may we please have a Cesar reaction video???

Sarah Martin

I love this so much! I have goosebumps!! You actually made me cry 😢

Jacky Friedman

Oh. My. God. That is so freaking beautiful. Almost brought me tears. I did get choked up and my heart melted. I used to have both John Lennon and his son Julian Lennon cassettes with this on them. Julian sounds just like his father. When I first heard him I had to recheck who was singing. This song is so beautiful and yet so powerful. Thank you Geoff for the awesome memories. I was 12 years old and had just moved from Pittsburgh Pa to Fort Myers FL. My brother had helped us move but had to Vietnam not long after with the army. He ended up in the army for 20 years and an E8 Sargent when he got out.

KorKnot

Standing ovation!! Wow!! I came into the world when this was released. Another reason to love October & and ecstatic to now have 2 versions of this song.

Zeleste Rosaline Zafina Søndergaard

😭 I’m not crying, I just got something in my eyes 🥹😂 You did it justice. ❤️ It is absolutely amazing, a masterpiece for sure ❤️ I didn’t know I needed this so thank you Geoff ❤️ I really love your rendition of this song. ❤️

Amanda Hovendon

Every song that you touch turns to gold, Geoff. And you’re such a wonderful storyteller and you know how to expose hidden stories within these well known songs and bring them into the light with your own added flare. Love it 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻❤️❤️❤️

Emma Yadkin

I remember when this song came out. Thank you for giving me a much needed reminder.

Cloudy Skies

I was a teenager in high school when this was new. It spoke to me even then. Now, 50 years older, it is painfully clear to me in this world, as we are living it, that humankind may never find that path. But as individuals we can try. Change truly comes from within. That you, Geoff, for lending your stellar talent and your beautiful voice to this lovely song. It's brings back into focus the sentiment of the lyrics to those of us who have been around awhile and also introduces the beauty and emotion to newer, younger generations. Thank you.

Mikki Fullerton

Emotional, Melodic, Slower. What a surprise, I like it!

Lois McCray

This came out in October '71. I was 17 and newly married. Coming up on 53 years.

Rebecca Mangelsdorf

This is the first song that you have done that I do not like at all. The lyric -

Rebecca Mangelsdorf

Sorry I will continue the lyric -And no religion, too - is offensive to me a Christian Lutheran Pastor - so I will not listen to it.

Cyndra

The beauty of your arrangement and your most beautiful voice brings tears.💖

Karen Grace

It actually feels very timely right now given what is happening in our country. Well, in the world... Thank you for doing this!

ObscureReferenceWoman

That was everything I didn't know I wanted for that song. I *was* a little kid when that came out, and I remember crying my eyes out when John was killed. Thank you. And your timing is good because this song is often sung at the Olympics, which just started. Great treatment of a great song.

ANITA M WRIGHT

So very beautiful! Geoff everything you do is beautiful, and yes you did it more than justice!

Leonie Frenkert-Ghazi

John Lennon's legacy, his vision of a peaceful world, is as relevant today as it was in 1971 when he sang the song. Back then it was Vietnam, today it's the whole world that's in flames. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for daring to tackle this work of art. You've done a fantastic job, no one else could have interpreted it so wonderfully. THANK YOU GEOFF. ☮️

Grace Files

Omg Geoff you have done it again...you have made a masterpiece😍 I honestly didn't know that I needed this until today. I just love how you made this your own, it is perfect. And the video is absolutely gorgeous, it fits the song so well. I honestly don't know what else to say but thank you. Thank you SO much for making this gorgeous cover, I appreciate you so much❤️

Steve Graves

This is beautiful. I am seriously considering having your version played at my wake. Not soon, mind you. I am going to beat this cancer, but it will still be beautiful in another fifty years.

Steve Graves

The only divisive statement in the comments comes from a self proclaimed pastor. Maybe this is what John Lennon meant in his lyric.

Gisela D (DarthLeia)

It was on the olympics opening too that's another proof of how a classic lives forever. Can't wait to hear your version 👏

Lynn M

Back to comment now, I have goosebumps and shivers. Those higher parts are especially haunting. You did this one justice Geoff.

Pat R

WOW. The ONLY way (other than John Lennon's version) this song should be sung. I'm verklempt.

Sandy Nickell

That was so beautiful Geoff! Thank you! 💜💜💜

Janet Wright

And had to make a big point of it. A better person would’ve decided not to listen to it but not said anything.

Tom Peavy

Yooooo. That was awesome. And bravo for not forcing a super low note when not necessary.

Jill Weimer Koeninger 🐉

My shivers and goosebumps have shivers and goosebumps!! Oh my goodness! So beautiful 😍 You made me love the song again!

Leigh D

You weren't even a glint in your daddy's eye 🤣 I was a wee little baby. Very tastefully beautiful.

Åse M Bruun Lagnestål

LOVE this! ❤️ Mom would’ve been so happy if she had heard this! 🥰 She was 33 and I was 10 years old in 1971.

Ruth Ballinger

Wow just wow! We need this right now we need this always but right now this jus hits different! What an absolutely gorgeous and heaart felt arrangement! Had me in tears.

Marie Galaxy

Religion is for correction. If the world were as John dreamed and wrote and sang, there would be no need for religion.

Suzy Bailey

Oh wow! Good job I only have to type this as speaking would be a challenge right now. Beautiful Geoff, thank you! 😥💜🇬🇧

Heather W

Wow...just fantastic. 👏 👏 👏

Jeanette Pencz

I am in awe 🫢 So heartbreaking beautiful. I had goosebumps and shivers throughout this wonderful song. This song and the message is so needed in this times. Thank you Geoff ❤️ (I am also a dreamer 🥰 you are not the only one)

Gamesz

Beautiful and a very good choice ❤️ we definitly need more dreamers today ☮️

Rhonda Davey

The dystopian vision of the lyrics mean that I turn it off, no how beautifully done. The vision of this song is how the workers paradises of Russia, China and North Korea are run. Look how well that has turned out. It falsely attributes the problems of the world to religion rather than to the selfishness, greed at the bottom of every human heart. On the surface the song has a "nice" and fake uplifting sentiment but scratch the surface and this song leads to despair. Who can live up to it? No- one. I have already seen an intolerant reply to a comment that also had issues with this song choice so if you are going to make an angry response to this, you are part of the problem and illustrate perfectly how the peaceful vision of this song is an illusion.

Cécile Roussey

No but frankly, I listen to it again, I want to cry, it takes me to the guts, I feel a lot of emotions, it’s magic... Geoff, you managed to interpret it as a real masterpiece <3

Kathy Pricer

I am a Christian, but I don't find this offensive. I think John is just pointing out that the majority of the wars throughout history have been fought because of religious differences. Personally I wouldn't want to see a world without religion, but he did have a valid point.

Masha

So many emotions I can't say which one is the strongest... ❤️❤️❤️

AmbularD

Not the only one, unfortunately.

Robin Anne McDuff

Thanks for doing this one. This was our wedding march song.

Felicity McDonald

So good! It started out lovely, but then became amazing and absolutely glorious! It reminds me of the first time I listened to your cover of Sound Of Silence, and the way that built up to epic proportions at the end as well. I was just grinning deliriously by the end of this and I'm definitely gonna be relistening to this one quite a fair few times!

Laura

Welp, meanwhile other people find the position of pastors offensive, soooo... just skip the song if u don't like a sentence and leave the dude making a cover in peace 😉

Édua Elster

No angry response: those countrys are doing the opposite of John Lennons Imagine.

Gillian Drysdale

that was absolutely beautiful thank you ❤️

Susan Aliffi aka fifi

Hmmm…let me see. I could have sworn when this video started that it was going to be a solo Geoff. Which would have been ok. HOWEVER, I was thrilled that the rest of the Geoffs finally showed up! Although, I couldn’t SEE them! I know they were there cause I heard them (I did, right? Y’all heard them too, right?). Must have been invisible! Pretty neat trick! Kudos to ALL the Geoff’s!!!

Oliwier Dziki

Even though there was no requests, I think everybody needed this one.

Karen & Lauren

I actually have only one complaint. Since when does a grand piano NOT HAVE PEDALS??? lol to that oversight.

Ruth Feiertag

Geoff, You don't need to wait for anyone's permission or suggestion to perform a song that you want to do. It's engaging to know what music is speaking to you; thank you for sharing your rendition with us. Like you, I see and hear this song as "a testament to our shred humanity," to the need for us to recognize what divides us and to reach for what unites us. "Imagine" doesn't ask us all to think or live the same way; rather it tasks us with envisioning, imagining how to treat each other with respect and kindness and to act on that vision. Thank you for renewing that message with your version of "Imagine."

Mia

Not going to lie, the title reveal had me extremely disappointed. The song is both iconic and severely overplayed/covered. But your voice and interpretation had me hooked from the first note.

B Sprak

Thank you for doing this Geoff. It's beautiful 😍 This is a song needed everywhere.

Sarah Borzelli

After listening to it to a more reasonable time (rather than at nighttime) - I trust my senses more and still there's something about the heartfelt way you sing it, the way you take the listener to a journey leading into the 'bigger' part shouting at the world to be more reasonable, bringing it back to a more quiet, comforting and hopeful place and those last words "and the world will live as one" together with the humming and the aw so delightful chords that brings tears to my eyes each time! So so beautiful, Geoff! Great choice! (I miss Kathy opening the shutters in the video though - lol) 😂

Karen & Lauren

Offensive? Sorry. That statement is precisely why you, and thousands, if not millions, of religious folk continue to miss the point of the song - and any song pointing out the wrongs in both society and humanity, since religion is the core of many of those wrongs. (And as someone who has served in churches for over three decades, it's one of the reasons I'm proud to have removed those blinders.)

Pat P

🥰

Lenka Z.

I don´t like the original, to be honest. But, well... Geoff could sing from a shopping list and it would probably be great. For this one I´m enjoying the voice, not the song itself. Sorry. Oh, and I enjoy the visuals as well. Especially the guy by the piano. 😎

Hunter

Gorgeous man, playing a gorgeous piece of music, in a gorgeous space. Geoff's a triple G threat. (Well four if you count his name.)

Sandy Parker

Wow, so moving. We all need to try to imagine, and make this happen. The violence and hate has got to stop. Thank you for your beautiful voice and spirit.

Sandy Parker

Cancer is such an awful thing. My thoughts are with you and Imagine a cure.

Sandy Parker

I am a Lutheran also but there is a big difference between being a Christian and religion. How many times did Christ call out the religious leaders on their hypocrites? I think "no religion" does not mean not following His teaching, but instead "no religion" means loving all people regardless of their "religion". "Love one another as I have loved you."

Tine

"It just felt right" lol. it does almost feel right for cover artists to either tackle 'Hallelujah' or 'Imagine' as mandatory to have on your palmares. I am just so grateful to you that we get to hear and enjoy this side of your music, as these types of songs, alongside High and Dry for example, almost seem an entirely separate entity in my mind. This one feels so easy and light, and is just shy of being ethereal for me. Which fits the message of the song so well. I really enjoy some of the choices you've made here, giving this song a wonderful update and making it your own, as you usually do so brilliantly. Wonderful new song, Geoff. Thank you so much, to you and your crew!

Amanda W

It's gorgeous, Geoff. I was worried when I saw the title, because this song has been done so many times. But this just has me vibing. I sitting here swaying back and forth, and I can't help closing my eyes and just listening. 💜

Silv E

I hoped I was being overdramatic when I thought "this was a bold choice, it's perhaps more controversial today than when it was written", but it seems I was right. And I respect Geoff even more for choosing to do it.

Susie Q

Geoff. Excellent selection! I'm speechless...

Agnes EvaR

Imagine there are no language barriers... That was a brave song choice, I think. I'm glad you picked a song that you thought would be good to sing. Despite the first sentence (imagine there's no heaven) for me there is something "heavenly" in this song. Those strings-ish sounds in the background sound like the music of the spheres. When I listened to the song with my eyes closed, the part where the chorus came in, reminded me that scene from City of angels where the angels hear the sunrise at the shore. And again, we start very similar to the original and end up somewhere in Geoff-land, where the original song is just a far reference for the song you've done for us. And I'm here for it.

Swan

What a beautiful version of such a hopeful song!! Though, didn't you say you wanted to make more videos with a darker background because they get better numbers? But honestly, that place is so gorgeous I would have changed my plans, too.

Scott Pearce

It gets better the more I listen to it

Leonie Frenkert-Ghazi

Everyone in the world should feel the peaceful message of this song. I hope that you will feel it too someday.

Leonie Frenkert-Ghazi

I agree with Édua. The dystopia of John Lennon's vision describes the world as it is, unfortunately often caused by religions or worldviews that seem incompatible with each other. We are all human, let's immerse ourselves in John Lennon's vision and make his utopia come true! Thank you, Geoff, for this food for thought!

Sarah Reach

I am so glad that you mentioned this extra comment about Kathy. I had seen in a prior comment that there was some references to the original music video, which I have never seen. It took this comment to get me curious enough to look it up and I am so glad I did as it enhanced my appreciation of the video so much! I was already really loving the vibe of this music video on it's own. It has similar vibes to Ain't No Sunshine and High and Dry, with all the gorgeous light play through the windows that match the light hopeful tone of the piece so well. But recontextualizing all that having seen Lennon and Yoko's original makes it so much more meaningful, while giving it such a beautiful modern update (just like your arrangement did sonically) Once again you have created a work of art for the ears and eyes alike!

Åse M Bruun Lagnestål

My beloved mom, Dorothy passed last week due to complications from a surgery. 😢❤️

Janina

What a rendition! So gorgeous and moving ❤️

Leonie Frenkert-Ghazi

Please take a look at the song! It would be wonderful if every religion became superfluous, because ALL people are truly HUMAN BEINGS.

Leonie Frenkert-Ghazi

I, personally, believe in heaven. I am sure that your mother in heaven will hear this song, not with physical organs, but she will feel it... ❣️

Catherine King

Love the bridge change. This is an awesome compilation!! Another homerun

Filiz E

You've done it more than justice, sir!! Oooh the emotions..

Geoff Castellucci

Honestly, i never realized that this song was controversial, I'm actually really surprised by this. Learn something new every day, i guess.

Geoff Castellucci

I just play stuff on the keys like a caveman until I hit something I like. I wish there was more to it than that!

Angie Woollard

I don’t believe that for a second. 😉

Geoff Castellucci

It wasn't even plugged in. We didn't want to see cables in the video. 🙄

Geoff Castellucci

So i couldn't hear ANYTHING. It was actually pretty difficult to play like that.

Manasi Kane

This is a bold choice not just because of how popular the song is but also because John Lennon , Yoko Ono and this song bring out divisive opinions for “reasons” (none of which I claim to understand, it’s such a meaningful song) This is a beautiful, beautiful rendition ❤️. Much kudos and applause !

Rebecca Mangelsdorf

Imagine lyrics, "there is no religion" implies there is no God. John Lennon and Yoko are not role models that I inspire to be like or want to emulate. I do not like this song - at all. I have loved your other songs but not this one - I turn off the song when it comes on the radio and I have removed it from my Spotify account whenever it comes up. In this world full of people who seems to vilify Christianity and the beliefs that I live by and hold close to my heart. . . It is for this reason that I am now stepping up for my beliefs on this matter.

Angela Scheiber

"It seemed like the right thing to do." And you are right, it is! Thank you for this. I would've requested it if I knew you'd be down to singing it, but I do think it's even better this way, because it came from your heart and mind (and soul if you wanna imagine that to be true). It is one of the songs that helped spread the message of piece throughout the world and in my life as well. As it will continue to do, thanks to people like you who are willing to give it a voice! Thank you a thousand times for that! 🕊️🌸💖

Dale George Hjertaas

Great song. Great performance. very glad you choose to record this one.

Christina Buxton

You more than did it justice! Love seeing you play piano and sing together 🎶 just sincere and poignant, beautifully done!

Christina Buxton

For what it's worth when they wrote the song they specifically did not use the words there is no God. It's a historical fact that a lot of wars have been fought over religion. It can be a beautiful experience for many people to have faith, myself included. Many people in positions of power have and continue to exploit people's faith to motivate people to go to war. That's how I personally interpret that lyric; it's commenting on all the ways that people can be divided and violence can be incited. When in reality we are actually all fairly similar at our core and mostly all want to live happy, peaceful lives. 100% respect your feelings and thoughts on this, just wanted to share another way to look at it.

AmbularD

Their being offended by it says more about them than it does about the song.

Angie Woollard

You've already posted this opinion earlier on this thread, yes?

Debs Badger

The video itself, visually, is stunning. 💕 I'm still not crazy about that one part as mentioned during the premiere. For whatever reason it pulls me right out of enjoying it. It's really pretty otherwise. I guess it'll either grow on me or it won't. No worries either way. 🙂

AmbularD

What Christina said. It doesn't deny God, it just suggests that we could choose not to silo ourselves into factions based on our differing beliefs about the Ineffable, and then use that as yet another excuse to treat one another badly.

Sarah Reach

It shouldn't be all that controversial, at least on the basis of religion. John was partially inspired to write this song from a person who had gifted him a Christian prayer book. Lennon once clarified his intent this way, “If you can imagine a world at peace, with no denominations of religion — not without religion but without this my-God-is-bigger-than-your-God thing — then it can be true,” Source: https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/john-lennon-revealed-imagine-wasnt-attack-religion.html/

Édua Elster

Just some simple toughts why this song was also difficult for me many years ago, but not anymore: No hell/Heaven means, people are good to each other without the fear of punishment or the hope of a reward. It does Not mean there is no afterlife at all. No countrys/no religion does Not mean there is no god or you can’t be proud of your heritage. But borders and believes are the main reason for war and hate in this world. Don’t close your eyes from the truth. Believe in your god and spread love, how every religious Person should do. Don’t interprete a Message into this song, that does not exist. It is about equality, care for each other and love. Can’t think about something more Christian than This.

Silv E

It's a great song with a beautiful message, and it's a pity not everyone is open to it. (I hope someday ...)

Sarah Reach

Personally, I choose to believe that hope for peace and unity in the world is never dystopian. Can the lyrics be read narrowly as 1970's communist propaganda? Sure, if you want to, there is some historical justification for that. However, this song has stood the test of time and the concepts of putting aside division and tribalism and coming together is a LOT bigger than any political faction, past or present.

Ashley Evers

So which is worse? No sound or painful sound? 🤣

Jen A AKA Dravengal

Okay, on my first listen, full honesty, I am SUPER picky about this song, so am a tad more critical than usual. But I figure you want honestly. I can tell this is going to be one of my favorite renditions, once I've heard it a few more times (which I plan to do after I type this.). Excellent choice of song! First off, the beautiful piano in the beginning brought tears to my eyes. Geoff, you could give piano concerts, you honestly could. Okay, minor criticism one. I felt like in the first couple verses, the sound could have been a bit "rounder." I love that lion's purr voice, but it felt just a tiny little bit, hmm, what's the word? Encased? Restrained? Not BAD in any sense, mind you. I'm just used to a more open mouthed (I hope that makes sense) version like in the original. Minor criticism two. The Geoffette chorus (which sounded great) with Geoff mouthing the words but no standout single voice struck me as odd. It just felt a little weird, like something was missing. But I think I just need to get used to it. Overall, currently it's a solid B+ at the moment, but as I said, I am going to listen to it several more times, and with that extra credit I fully expect to bring it up to an A. Great job sir! I think John Lennon would love this, and I hope Paul and Ringo get to hear this, somehow. 💙

Sue Armstrong

WKRP in Cincinnati did a whole episode centered around this very reaction to Imagine back in 1981. It's worth checking out, for both sides of the discussion.

Katie Haycox

Absolutely stunning. Love it x

Marie DesJardin

Thanks for the links, Sarah and Sue! Geoff is way too young to know about the controversies John and Yoko stirred up in the day. The lyrics clearly echo many of Jesus' teachings from the Sermon on the Mount - "No need for greed or hunger, a brotherhood of man".

Geoff Castellucci

I'm certainly not trying to vilify anyone, and the song never struck me as divisive or offensive, I'm genuinely surprised that anyone interprets it that way. I'm not trying to minimize your feelings, but i'm more than a little bewildered at some of the strong reactions.

Angie Woollard

Also bewildered right along with you, Geoff.

Filiz E

I'm so sorry for your loss, Åse🫂😥❤️

Jen A AKA Dravengal

Yep. We're at A-level now! Thank your for doing such a fantastic cover of this song, that touches us all! 💙

Loretta Durand

I’ve never been a huge fan of this song. I’ve always thought it was a tad cloying but your rendition has altered my thinking. For me, you have made it stand out from all the other versions by giving it more emotion and power. Thank you!

IsabellA

I am shocked that the few people who dare not like the lyrics of Imagine and say it get trolled and derided... And this is Patreon, which should be more like a "family" and not a public chat where anybody and their neighbour feel free to insult those who have another opinion. Feel free to insult me as well if you want (which is exactly the opposite of what this song is supposed to promote, by the way). Just to say, it is one of these numerous songs where I love the melody but dislike the lyrics. In this case it has much to do with the fact that John and Yoko's "sublime" opinions and provocations often grated on my nerves, but did John have talent! So, I don't like the lyrics. It is not the first time, it will not be the last. I just IMAGINE I do not understand English (easy since it is not my mother language) and let myself be carried away by the music. Geoff, I love how you turned it into your own, as you always do - which is why we are all here - and that you chose to do something because you wanted it and not because it was requested or did not feel obligated to go insanely bass just because. I had a little trouble with the sound level, but I suppose it will be better with the final version.

Mikki Fullerton

You can do it Steve, keep on fighting! ❤️

Angie Woollard

Just rewatched the video and this set is so aesthetically pleasing. The white and green is absolutely beautiful and peaceful. Fingers crossed for a BTS for this one - I'd love to see more of this house! (I also really love the tree outside the door behind you.)

Rahel

I love this song so much! Your rendition is BEAUTIFUL💓, really beautiful! ..and I'm a dreamer too...

AmbularD

I can't speak for anyone else, but for me, not liking the lyrics isn't the problem. Acting as though they constitute an attack and it's wrong for the song to exist, or for Geoff to have covered it (which you don't seem to be doing, but some of the other commenters have,) that's the problem.

Lorraine Tellei

sorry, Pentatonix posted the same song on FB today and i like their version better

IsabellA

Thank you for taking the time to answer me. I did not find the commentaries of the lady pastor (most notoriously hers) that offensive to justify what seemed to me an avalanche of heated retaliations. Maybe because I do not understand all the nuances of English and because I always side with the underdog, but it seemed to me her reaction was not on the level of the Spanish Inquisition to be treated as such. Overreaction on my part? I really don't know. In fact, it is for Geoff I feel the most, because he was so obviously pleased with this cover and he seems such a perfectionist in what he does that it seems to me we spoiled his justifiable pride. It does not change my opinion that everyone is entitled to theirs but it is also true that it is much easier to be tolerant when you have no real convictions. There, I am now wondering if what I just wrote sounds offensive? It is very difficult to realise the impact our written words can have, particularly when we write so easily and so quickly. Probably because, as someone we know likes to say, I am old. So, I will just shut up.

Sarah Borzelli

so weird...PTX version is from 7 years ago

Gillian Drysdale

it’s a beautiful song and I never saw it as controversial and I’m old enough to have heard it when it first came out.

Grace Files

I am also bewildered as well, it puzzles me a bit, to be honest.

AmbularD

Please don't be discouraged by a handful of naysayers, Geoff. It's a gorgeous cover of a beautiful song, and I do hope one day they'll join us in understanding its intended message.

Sarah Martin

Yes, Pentatonix did this song when Avi was still in the group.

Ashley Evers

I don't think this was the intended interpretation of the song, I think it was meant to encourage people to be more united. But in the way it’s written, it illustrates exactly how hard that can be. Those first couple of lines can feel like a slap in the face for people who hold their faith as a core part of their identity. It happens often enough that being religious is treated as intrinsically negative, it’s hard not to hear that accusation the first time you hear this song. I can offer enough grace to the authors to hope they really didn’t know how that would feel. It feels like being excluded for your beliefs, which is exactly the opposite of the intended message of the song. I do think that the thesis of this song could apply to anyone's deeply held core beliefs, but I think if you rewrote that first line to address someone else’s identity, you’d have the same problem. A different set of people would feel attacked and defensive about the song. This version of this song is beautiful, and I genuinely enjoy it and appreciate the intended sentiment. I don’t believe taking it in the worst light is productive. But to me this is a song that proves that it is very easy to preach empathy and understanding and extremely, extremely difficult and complicated to practice it.

Amy Petty

This was absolutely amazing. Thank you for such a beautiful cover! Have you thought about recording "Let It Be"? I think that would be a phenomenal song with your vocals!

Lady Payne

I found Avi Kaplan's I'm Only Getting Started to be very nice defiant song for dealing with cancer.

Lady Payne

Wow that's a lot of comments. I have never heard this song before. It makes me want to cry, because so much of the human condition is not like that. Well done. I haven't had a song make me cry before. TV shows, movies, books, fanfic - all have made me cry, but this is the first song. Well done, Geoff. Well done.

Lady Payne

Lion's purr voice - that's it! Thats exactly what he sounds like! Thanks Jen.

Steve Graves

I had been unaware of that song, but I agree, it goes in my chemo day Playlist.

Ed Mitchell

There is probably a reason it’s not been requested. Sadly not a song I like. And couldn’t really get behind this version. But let’s face it no one can be perfect all of the time.

Jacky Friedman

Couldn't have said it all better myself. Agree 💯💯💯💯💯% Although this is my favorite song by John Lennon. Both lyrics and music. His son Julian also did this song on his cassette. Sounds just like his dad.

Jacky Friedman

Agree. John Lennon was very much into peace, love and equality. And his songs reflected just that.

Jacky Friedman

There is some pianos that don't have pedals. I think the Maverick is one of them. It does look weird without pedals though. But being distracted by Geoff makes them no difference.

Jacky Friedman

Ase, Know how you feel. I'm the last living with my parents and 3 siblings all in heaven. All I have left is my daughter and 3 grandkids. I was 12 years old when this was sang by John. And I got the meaning of it back then. Loved this then and love it now.

Jacky Friedman

My prayers are with you. My daughter goes to church every Sunday. I'll have her pray for you as well. My mom passed away from ovarian cancer. Her 7 brothers each passed from different cancers. None the same.

Jacky Friedman

Agree 💯%. If you don't like it don't listen to it. And don't be rude about it. If you're really a pastor you wouldn't have said what you did. Enough said.

Jacky Friedman

Personally I never thought of it as controversial. I've been listening to this song since I was 12 years old (Yeah. I know. Old). John was always about peace, love and equality. And to me this reflects that very feeling. The juist of the song in my interpretation is he was singing about EVERY one coming together and getting along. No wars or fighting. By anyone.

Jacky Friedman

How were you 17 and now 53 when I was 12 and now 65? Hmmmmm. Just curious 😉

Jacky Friedman

Geoff once said that he and Voiceplay do not copy and paste. If they can add or change parts to make it their own but respect the original they won't do it.

Suzy Bailey

My heartfelt sympathies Åse!

Lois McCray

Almost 53 years married 😂 Just turned 70 🎂.

Silv E

22nd watch or so, and I just want to say: I love how the room is nearly empty, reminiscent of the original, but with plants. An absence of constructs that divide us, but nature is present. Yes! Also, this may just be my new favorite of yours. ❤️

Cécile Roussey

Frankly, Geoff, I agree with you.... I’m surprised and shocked too! As with religion, we cannot follow what we have on our heart... and with the heart... I don’t find this song offensive, I just think it’s super well interpreted... I’m sorry to those who are religious but I don’t see why this song is "offensive" in your opinion... and as Geoff interprets it in an "offensive" way according to you... This has nothing to do with it, sorry... ;-)

Cécile Roussey

And Geoff doesn’t mean to offend anyone...

Cécile Roussey

Geoff sings a song he likes! that’s it! with his interpretation which is just sublime to me !

Cécile Roussey

We forbid a lot of things with religion, it’s too bad I find... like singing this song "Imagine" that Geoff likes and wants to share with us... sorry... :-/

Amy Petty

Yes, and? The phrase in question is "Imagine....and no religion, too." The song is not "implying" there is no God. It is inviting the listener to imagine that there is no religion for the very same reason it invites you to imagine there is no war. It's literally part of the same verse that goes "nothing to kill or die for." The only thing John is implying is that religion, like so many other things, has been used as a tool of division that causes pain.

Amy Petty

Geoff - it's not THAT controversial. There's a very particular demographic of people that dislike it.

Amy Petty

Dystopian....? That's the opposite of the vision offered by this song. Absolutely nothing about it is "how workers paradises" are run. That is literally just propaganda on the one hand and historical ignorance on the other.

Amy Petty

Personally, I would have requested it. I didn't bother to because the last time I requested a song and expressed enthusiasm, I got piled on in the comments by people telling me it was overdone and not something THEY wanted. If you're implylng that this is not a popular song, you are very much mistaken.

Amy Petty

FYI, if your comment gets cut off, you can edit it. You don't have to start a new comment.

Amy Petty

Yeah, the problem is that the post in question was essentially "Sorry, I don't like this song because I'm personally offended by it" as if that's somehow a valid critique. It's not. It's posed it as if with the expectation for Geoff to apologize, or to defend his reasons for choosing it. That's the problem here. You're not obliged to like a song. Ever. But what exactly was the intent behind broadcasting that she personally hates it? What the hell does she think Geoff is supposed to do with that knowledge? I'll add that the very unsubtle dig of "it's easy to be tolerant when you have no strong convictions" speaks volumes about you. You immediately write "I wonder if what I just wrote sounds offensive", but you know perfectly well what you intended by making the conscious choice to write that. And for the record, I can easily turn it around on you. I have plenty of strong convictions. They're just not the hateful sort that necessitate me being intolerant... Also..."that lady pastor." Lady pastor? As opposed to other pastors? If she was a man would you have referred to him as "that guy pastor"? Come on now.

Ed Mitchell

I am sharing an opinion. It is my opinion. That is all. If I offended you or angered you with it then that’s a you problem. It is just an opinion. If you want to request something then do it. Don’t shy away from it just because some people have differing tastes of thoughts to your own. It’s a song suggestion not a world changing event. For every person that says it’s over done or not a good suggestion there are probably 10 who said nothing because they agreed with it. Not everyone is the same and not everyone has the same tastes. Does that matter? No. You do you and let others do them. If you don’t agree with something then you can say so. Be polite but don’t shy away. You have as much right to your opinion as any other. And so do I.

Manasi Kane

After listening and watching several times, I want to add that this is one of the best videos you’ve made. The space and the way it’s shot just mesh so well with your arrangement and the song’s lyrics ❤️ I’m a fairly new patron and I don’t do a lot of commenting but for what it’s worth, this is in top 3 of your songs for me !

IsabellA

Dear Amy Petty, I think you confused my comment with the comment of Rebecca who said she is a Lutherian Pastor. Anyway, I begin to believe the heat and amount of reactions here must be a very American thing I have no hope to understand, being a European to boot. By the way, this last sentence was a joke, even if a lame one, considering the very lyrics of Imagine. So, please everybody here, do not stone me for it and have a good day.

Silv E

I don't want to argue in Geoff's comments, but a bit of US-specific context could be that, although they might be underdogs in this space, those complaining about the lyrics belong to the majority religion and what is thisclose to becoming a state one. Maybe that's why, as a practitioner of a minority religion, I find the lyrics comforting and those comments a little alarming.

Amy Petty

This seems like a really unnecessary comment. Who gains from you declaring this?

Amy Petty

Spare me. Of course it's your opinion. I didn't suggest otherwise. That doesn't mean it's beyond criticism, especially when you're trying to insinuate it's a song nobody wanted. I certainly am not offended by it, even though that is the go-to rebuttal to having your opinion pushed back on.

Amy Petty

No, I was responding to you. And yes, your response is a silly overreaction. The response in question spurred a lot of replies, yes, but only a few of them were "heated." It certainly is inaccurate to characterize as an avalanche of hate, or as the Spanish Inquisition.

Ed Mitchell

Everything is open to criticism. That’s the point of having differing opinions and discussion platforms. And in the case of personal taste even more so. And no one opinion is more valid than another. The man said it hadn’t been suggested and I commented. I didn’t insinuate anything other than no one obviously felt strongly enough about the song to bother suggesting it. If you had wanted it done then suggest it. Who cares if someone else doesn’t like it. You do and for you, or anyone else, that’s what counts. Hence the personal taste. Have your voice heard. If the artist didn’t want your opinion they wouldn’t ask.

Amy Petty

Dude. I don't need the repetitive lecture. A lot of folks here DO need to consider that "everyone has the right to their opinion," should not mean that you just go around declaring them all the time. Posting ON THE ARTIST'S PAGE that you dislike the song they just covered serves no good purpose whatsoever. You're not offering a critique of the composition or anything, so...what possible reason is there? What do you gain by going out of your way to tell someone you dislike their work? What do you think THEY gain from it?

Tara Congo

Full disclosure: I've been holding off on watching this because I *really* don't care for the original. Not for any particular dramatic reason, it's just never been my favourite (John Lennon and The Beatles overall are also not really my cup of tea. Scandalous, I know). However, I'm surprised to have tears in my eyes after watching your version, Geoff. That was incredibly beautiful. The message feels less saccharine than in the original to me and much more sincere. Your musical tweaks and changes felt just right to me, and the video itself is gorgeous - one of your best, I think. I'm also so glad that you still feel free to pick songs you like for your own reasons and don't always have to go along with the demanding mob. So happy to be able to support you continuing to do your amazing thing! P.S. There's something ironic in the fact that this song has brought out so much spiciness in the comments. Not very "Imagine" of y'all... 😆

Jen

Geoff, I have a playlist of songs that I listen to when I need to just shut the world out for a little bit. It is what I use to reground myself. It has possibly 6-8 songs on it…this will absolutely be added.

Amy Petty

Silv - yes. I have no patience for American Christians behaving as if they aren't the majority religious community in this nation and don't enjoy a LOT of privilege as a result. This song is not a personal attack on them. Nor is it some kind of anti-God screed.

Amy Petty

There's a fair amount of "just my opinion" rhetoric happening in the comments, so I'm just going to say it: Of *course* it's just your opinion. Offering "just my opinion" as a pre-emptive disclaimer to anticipated pushback, or a rebuttal to actual pushback, is ridiculous. That something is "just [your] opinion" does NOT somehow mean that your thoughts are sacrosanct and cannot or should not be criticized. Further, when and if your opinion receives pushback, that is *not* censorship in itself; neither is it people trying to say that you don't have the right to share it in the first place. That said, I maintain that whether you have the legal or moral right to express your opinion is a separate issue from whether you *should.* People have the right, OBVIOUSLY, to dislike a song for any and whatever reason. However, those same people should really take a minute to consider what their motivation is for going out of their way to make a conscious effort to tell an artist when they don't like his song. Seriously, what possible goal could you have in declaring to a singer that you disliked their cover? Are you trying to tell them you wish they hadn't covered it? Or that you would prefer they avoided songs of a particular style or message? Presumably you must have *some* goal, some expected response from the artist in question. Are you trying to get them to *apologize* for covering it, or to somehow go back in time and not cover it in order to make you happy? Just saying "Sorry, I didn't like this," or, better yet, "I like the Pentatonix version better" serve no purpose at all. You're literally just shitting on the artist. On his own space, no less. Save it for *other* spaces. I mean, this isn't about "muh 1st Amendment freedumbs" folks. It IS about common courtesy.

Tonya Schuster

Yes, yes, yes to the "right thing", the song, and the cover - distinctive and beautiful. Thank you so much for this!

Cécile Roussey

I know Geoff’s not that controversial, but I didn’t know there was a very special population of people who don’t like it. I’m sorry if I was awkward...

Gail R.

Geoff, I'm glad you chose a song you wanted. That's important to your well-being as an artist. Imagine is a gorgeous song. I was 18 when it was released. It was a time of misery on a global scale. The disastrous Viet Nam War. The National Guard had killed 4 Kent State students who were peacefully protesting the war in 1970. Numerous conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, India-Pakistan War and Bangladesh-Pakistan War. Then and now it is a plea for peace. Thank you for a heartfelt version in a beautiful space.

Hwyla

Wow Geoff! Not just a beautiful song, but a truly beautiful hope. You more than did it justice. You added so much to it, giving it a bit more impetus and drive. And it truly IS needed these days, but with the added changes it helps me re-hear it anew. Thank you!

Gaisha Ziapour Edwards

I love it, May be you're the best one to choose as you have, the songs that are best suited to your range of voice/voices 👌❤️🌹

Silv E

Hm, I only just noticed how the image sometimes reverses. That's interesting.

Samuel Siggelow

Did we request it? No. Did we need it? Oh yes. Great work as always man!

Cat

I like it, but in this instance I prefer the original. Sorry.

Jamie T.

Oh Geoff, you've really been hitting me in the heart the last two songs. Big Iron was a favorite of my Dad's so I've been listening to it non-stop since it hit Patreon. Now you do Imagine, which was one of my Mom's favorite songs of all time. She loved all people, regardless of race, religion, rich/poor, etc. It didn't matter and to her this song was the world she wanted to live in. I sobbed through this, wishing so much that she was still here to hear it with me. I was a wee lass of 5 in 1971 & only 14 when John Lennon was murdered. I still remember it like it was yesterday. Thank you for this beautiful cover of such a beautiful song.

Bec White

Absolutely beautiful rendition of such a timeless song!

HGeek

I am in awe of how beautiful your version sounded Geoff, it's absolutely spectacular, cannot explain but can only say the vocals, lyrics and the whole arrangement touched the soul, thank you for making such wonderful pieces of art Geoff, I really mean it ❤️

Faith Oliver

I just got Patreon (decided to treat myself for my birthday) and I am not disappointed. Thank you Geoff ❤️

Hallie Heller

Another triumph Geoff!!! So soulful and beautiful!

Tonia Richardson

Gorgeous!! What a beautiful, honouring arrangement, and well-suited environment. The photography is beautiful, the sound is amazing...just WOW!!! Mahalo, Geoff, and everyone who contributed / participated in this artistic masterpiece.

Florida Pro

Back in the 1980s, this song and Star Trek: The Next Generation were my vision of a more positive 21st-century future and a new millennium. Fast-forward to the present, Imagine is a pipe dream, and newer versions of Star Trek are dystopian. As for your cover, I love your creative touches, and the harmonies and higher register put it over the top for me.

Diane Holland

This is a beautiful song!!! I have listened to it many times. I especially enjoyed this song after hearing the noise of the day. I feel that there is too much hate, arrogance, opinionated, and rudeness in the world. This version makes me feel hope, love and peace. Thank you Geoff for singing this song! It brightens my day.

Ms Molly

I was 12, and already an "old soul" when John Lennon dropped this in 71, and it has had a lifetime impact on me. Your version has powerfully renewed that impact as I find myself relegated to the irrelevancy conferred by joining the ranks of the last of the Boomers to become "seniors" because it reminds me that hope is eternal, and dreamers are the ones who change the world, whether it's through touching large audiences (like you are blessed to) or just whomever one might come into contact with personally. It's renewed my steadfast belief in meliorism...the power to change the world through acts of creativity, love, compassion, and kindness; that even if those acts are small in scope, they have the power to change the world for the better. And that no one is irrelevant.

Helen D

This is a beautiful cover of Imagine.... I was born when this was written but it was partner my childhood growing up for sure. Love your version. 😊