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Listeners: you may recall my conversation with Robert Rosen (245), detailing the blocking of a pair of books by reputable authors that detailed the “househusband” years of John’s life; it evolved out of an essay Robert wrote. Well, one of those writers is here to tell his story himself.
Michael Medeiros was hired in 1977 to work on the indoor gardening at the Lennon’s Dakota apartments. But as he performed his assigned tasks, his role grew to ad hoc personal assistant and eventually, archivist. His memoir, Barefoot in Nutopia, remains unpublished – yet. But Michael wanted to share some stories and insights and we’re happy to have him, in what we project to be the first of at least two conversations. Subjects include day-to-day life, Yoko, Bermuda, Fred Seaman, and the night the unspeakable occurred, and its aftermath.
Hi Robert, Love the podcast, and had to say thank you for the good work on Lennon at the Dakota and his death. I was hopeful that the Doggett book would provide a reliable narrative and some answers about those years. In that absence, you’re providing great information with the best available sources. We all have our biases, but Mr. Medeiros inspires confidence. Thanks for the fascinating interview.
Hi Robert. Long time listener, big time fan. Thanks for your fab podcast and the work you put in. Never fails to deliver and always something new to learn. I’m always intrigued by the last years at the Dakota so those last two episodes were particularly interesting. Just watched and enjoyed the May Pang documentary as well.
I still don’t understand, and no one can give a good explanation as to why, when John is enjoying his most successful and creative period after The Beatles, he went back to New York. What’s your take on that and will there be more revelations about those last five years?✌️&❤️
Hi Aussiedave, this is Michael “Tree” Medeiros here. I may be able to answer your question as to why John returned to New York. To quote him, “New York is the center of the Universe, and I want to be at the center.” John loved the city for its vitality and energy. He walked the streets without people bothering him. New York gave a sense of freedom. Sometimes, when I walked with him, people would say hello or express their love for his activism and music. But they always respected his space. From what I’ve read, fans in the UK could be very aggressive. Also, John considered Americans more open and easygoing.
Interesting, he wanted to be at the center of it all, but maybe not be the center of it all, so to speak?