Lennon still draws fans, 30 years after death

Since the murder of John Lennon 30 years ago Wednesday, his music and message continue to leave an imprint that killer Mark David Chapman could never erase.

"He's like a secular saint," said Phillip Norman, author of "Lennon: The Life." "His persona is still resonating as it did since right after he died.

"His death is one of the moments where people remember exactly where they were and what they were doing," he said. "He's still very much a part of young people's lives."

The former Beatle's hunger to fit in as regular New Yorker also left an imprint on New York. Lennon walked the streets with Yoko Ono without security or an entourage and interacted regularly with fans. When Chapman shot him, he was en route to the front door of the Dakota building on West 72nd Street rather than its more secure courtyard entrance.

"John Lennon prided himself on being a New Yorker," said Jason Menkes, music business professor at NYU. "His murder was tragic because it marked the end of an incredible life, an amazing talent, and sense of safety between musicians and their fans."

Chapman shot Lennon, then 40, four times in the back. Now 55, Chapman is serving 20 years to life.

Since the murder, Lennon's fan base and influence haven't dwindled.

SEE PHOTOSJohn Lennon through the years

"Lennon was ahead of his time, when he died, a great voice was lost for a movement and a generation," said Joan Grzan, 64, of Manhattan. "In culture and music, there will never be another John Lennon - no one with the influence and wisdom he had."