May Pang: A Multifaceted Legacy in Music and Photography
During this period, Lennon experienced one of the most artistically and commercially productive phases of his post-Beatles career. With Pang’s encouragement and support, he produced the albums Mind Games, Walls and Bridges, and Rock ‘n’ Roll, achieving his first solo #1 hit, “Whatever Gets You Through the Night.” Pang’s influence extended to creative collaborations with legends like Elton John, David Bowie, Harry Nilsson, Mick Jagger, and Ringo Starr. Notably, Pang’s whispered voice is heard on “#9 Dream,” and Lennon wrote “Surprise, Surprise (Sweet Bird of Paradox)” about her.
Beyond music, Pang played a crucial role in rekindling Lennon’s connections with family and friends. She facilitated a long-overdue reunion between Lennon and his son, Julian, as well as fellow bandmates George Harrison and Paul McCartney (which included a historic jam session with McCartney, Stevie Wonder and others.) Her photograph of Julian Lennon is featured on the cover of his album Jude, and her image of John Lennon in the Catskills appeared on the sleeve of the “Imagine” single in England & Japan, cementing her artistic legacy.
Pang’s work extended beyond Lennon. Her early career began at ABKCO Industries, where she worked with Allen Klein’s firm, managing the Beatles’ Apple Corps and the Rolling Stones. By 1970, Lennon and Yoko Ono hired her as their personal assistant, later promoting her to production coordinator. Pang earned a gold record for her contributions to Walls and Bridges and continued to impact the industry by managing releases for artists like Bob Marley and Robert Palmer during her time at Island Records.
In 1983, Pang published Loving John, a candid memoir detailing her relationship with Lennon and her behind-the-scenes role in his life and work. In 2008, she released Instamatic Karma, a collection of intimate photographs of Lennon during the Lost Weekend. These photos, which include iconic moments like Lennon signing the contract to dissolve the Beatles, have been exhibited across the U.S. in The Lost Weekend – The Photography of May Pang.
May Pang remains a sought-after voice in the music and photography worlds, with appearances in major publications and interviews on prominent platforms such as Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, and Howard Stern. Her story was further immortalized in the acclaimed documentary The Lost Weekend: A Love Story, which premiered at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival and is now available on major streaming platforms.
Today, Pang continues to share her unique perspective through her photographs and storytelling, offering an intimate glimpse into one of rock and roll’s most fascinating chapters.
Photo by John Ramspott