Bob Gruen

2014 Recipient of the John Lennon Real Love Award
 

Bob Gruen, in a remarkable 50-year career, has captured the contemporary music scene in striking images that have gained international recognition and established him as the world’s quintessential rock photographer.

Best known for his iconic photos of John Lennon and Yoko Ono in New York City, Bob took what are possibly the most famous shots of John Lennon, on the rooftop of his apartment building wearing a cut New York City t-shirt and flashing a peace sign as he stood proudly in front of the Statue of Liberty.

Bob chronicled the emerging punk and new wave scene of the 1970s.  He photographed Led Zeppelin, The Who, Elton John and countless other legendary artists. He was the subject of the acclaimed 2011 film, Rock “n” Roll Exposed: The Photography of Bob Gruen.  Plus, he is the author of seven books, including John Lennon: The New York Years, Rock Seen, and See Hear Yoko.

As a humanitarian, Bob has selflessly worked with many local and international charities to raise money in support of their life-affirming missions. A partial list includes: WhyHunger, Her Justice, Tibet House, The Kristen Ann Carrr Fund, The Donaldson Adoption Institute, Save The Music, MusicCares and Aperture Foundation.  In addition, for many years Bob has been a major supporter of Theatre Within, donating his time, energy and photographs to help the Annual John Lennon Tribute continue to flourish.