Imagine a relevant career

Many years ago, I heard Sir George Martin speak at an advertising conference. Sir Martin, known as the Fifth Beatle, for it was he that had produced so many of their classic albums.

Sir Martin related the events in making Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely-Hearts Club Band. As he took the audience through each song’s conception, development, and execution, the audience became more and more still. The tall, elderly gentleman emotionally connected us with his time with those four young lads from Liverpool. Though his talk lasted well over an hour, no one checked a watch or took notes. We hung on every word, not wanting to spill a drop of the moment.

In the final minutes of his talk, Sir Martin paid special tribute to the brilliant but short life of John Lennon. The stillness of the audience of hundreds left nothing in the air but the deep baritone of his voice and a soft instrumental rendition of Lennon’s song “Imagine.”

I looked around the room. Everyone tried to hide tears. The memory of John Lennon’s tragic death and the emotional weight of Martin’s incredible tale culminated our journey. Like those five men, none in that audience realized we were a part of something that only happens once in a lifetime.

A long, silent moment fell after Sir Martin thanked the audience. Then, thunderous applause with every person on their feet. Of the many inspiring memories I have had during my career, Sir George Martin’s story is significant if you want a creative career. Because he demonstrates that creating with passion is the only way to be relevant.