John Lennon and Engelbert Humperdinck – two legends of the 1960s music scene – once found themselves at odds in a way that fans still find intriguing. It all started with a chart battle that no one saw coming.
In 1967, Engelbert Humperdinck’s romantic ballad “Release Me” unexpectedly kept The Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever” from reaching No. 1 on the UK charts. For John Lennon, who had high hopes for the groundbreaking single, this was reportedly a major blow.
Although Lennon never openly attacked Engelbert, rumors swirled in the music industry. It was said that he resented the idea of a “middle-of-the-road” ballad overtaking a song he considered a bold piece of art. Some insiders claimed Lennon mocked Engelbert, allegedly calling him “music for housewives,” fueling speculation of a hidden rivalry.
Engelbert, however, has never returned fire. In interviews over the years, he’s expressed admiration for The Beatles, acknowledging their role in shaping modern music.
While there was never a public feud, the incident remains a fascinating anecdote: a silent standoff between artistic experimentation and mainstream romance — symbolizing the broader tension of the era’s musical landscape.