Discover the Remarkable Tale of John Lennon’s Last Creative Act as He Left for the Dakota with Yoko and the Final Mix Tape

On December 8, 1980, John Lennon and Yoko Ono departed the Record Plant studio, located at 321 West 44th Street in Midtown Manhattan. This renowned studio was famous for its high-ceilinged rehearsal rooms and was previously the site where Bruce Springsteen recorded the iconic album *Born To Run*. The couple had spent the previous four days recording and mixing Ono’s song, “Walking On Thin Ice.” After the studio session, Lennon expressed his excitement about the mix. He proclaimed to Ono, “From now on, we’re just going to do this,” highlighting a new creative direction.

As they left the studio and entered their limousine, Lennon held the final mix tape closely. Initially, they intended to dine at the Stage Deli but decided to head home to the Dakota Building instead. Upon arriving at the Dakota at approximately 10:45 PM, tragedy struck. Mark David Chapman approached Lennon outside the building and fired five shots at close range, hitting him four times. Lennon was rushed to Roosevelt Hospital but was pronounced dead 30 minutes later.

Following his death, an immense wave of grief swept through the world. The lyrics of “Walking On Thin Ice,” centered on the unpredictability of life, resonated deeply with listeners. The song, which features Lennon’s last recorded guitar solo, embodies a pivotal moment in their artistic collaboration. Released shortly before his death, the album *Double Fantasy* was nearing the top of the charts.

Creation of “Walking On Thin Ice”

The inspiration for “Walking On Thin Ice” struck Yoko Ono during car rides between their Dakota residence and their estate in Cold Spring Harbor. She described the song as a vision that came to her “almost fully formed.” In her words, the imagery of crossing a frozen lake mirrored her approach to life.

Recording Details

This track, a blend of jagged disco and post-punk, was initially recorded in August 1980. After a break, Lennon, Ono, and producer Jack Douglas resumed work on December 4. The duo layered their voices and instruments on a loop-based framework. Ono’s vocal delivery varied from soft to emotionally charged, a reflection of the song’s themes.

Lennon’s Guitar Solo

John Lennon played a powerful guitar solo for “Walking On Thin Ice,” which became a defining moment in his career. Using his beloved 1958 Rickenbacker 325, he created a haunting sound that underscored the song’s urgency. This session marked a significant departure for Lennon, as he embraced a new creative path.

Posthumous Release

Despite his tragic death, “Walking On Thin Ice” was released as a single on February 6, 1981. It reached No. 35 in the UK and No. 58 in the US Billboard Hot 100. In subsequent years, various remixes elevated the song’s profile, including a version that reached No. 1 on the US Dance Club Songs chart.

• Release Date: February 6, 1981
• Chart Positions:
  • No. 35 in the UK Singles Chart
  • No. 58 in the US Billboard Hot 100
• Notable Contributors:
  • Yoko Ono – Lead Vocals
  • John Lennon – Guitar
  • Jack Douglas – Producer

The enduring legacy of “Walking On Thin Ice” remains a testament to the profound partnership between John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Their final collaboration continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.