John Lennon’s single “Woman Is The N****r Of The World” was released in the United States on 24 April 1972.

The B-side was “Sisters, O Sisters”. Both tracks had previously appeared on the album Some Time In New York City.

Commercial Performance

The single peaked at number 57 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its chart performance was significantly affected by limited radio airplay, with many stations refusing to broadcast the record due to the controversial use of language in the title and lyrics.

Apple’s US promotions manager Pete Bennett also declined to actively promote the single, contributing further to its limited commercial impact.

Industry Context

“Without John knowing I checked out all the radio stations and they said they weren’t going to play it… Apple sent out 30,000 records and about 15,000 came back.”
— Pete Bennett

Bennett described a promotional wager with Lennon, highlighting the tensions between artistic intent and commercial radio constraints during the release period.

Release Context

The single formed part of Lennon’s post-Beatles politically charged recording period, reflecting the broader activist themes present on Some Time In New York City.

FAQs

When was the single released?

24 April 1972 in the United States.

What was the B-side?

Sisters, O Sisters.

How did it perform on the charts?

It reached number 57 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Why was its chart performance limited?

Many radio stations refused to play it, and promotion from Apple Records was minimal.

Was the song controversial?

Yes, its title and lyrical content led to widespread reluctance from broadcasters.