A forthcoming book about The Beatles alleges that Yoko Ono once provided guidance to John Lennon on how to consume heroin.

Scheduled for release this Thursday (April 11), “All You Need Is Love” includes a segment in which Lennon’s former spouse, Ono, refutes accusations that she introduced Lennon to heroin.

“It was just a pleasant sensation [using heroin]. So I shared that with John,” explained Ono, who reportedly experimented with the drug first in Paris (via People).

She emphasized that Lennon “wouldn’t have taken anything unless he wanted to,” stating: “[He] wanted to try it, which is why he inquired about my experiences with the drug.”

Ono clarified that she aimed to dispel the notion that Lennon’s reliance on the drug was solely her influence. She asserted that the couple “never injected” heroin, typically preferring to snort it instead.

In 1970, Lennon candidly discussed his heroin use, recalling, “It wasn’t enjoyable at all.” He clarified, “I never injected it or anything. We sniffed a little when we were in real pain.”

Lennon also addressed the scrutiny he and Ono faced, particularly from their inner circle. “We faced immense criticism, especially Yoko,” he disclosed during an interview with Rolling Stone. “Even Peter Brown in our office – and you can quote this – after six months, he greets me with a handshake and doesn’t even acknowledge her. This was a constant occurrence.”

He elaborated, “We were subjected to such intense pressure that we felt compelled to find relief. That’s how we ended up using ‘H’. It was a reaction to the hostility we faced from the Beatles and others. But we eventually overcame it.”

“All You Need Is Love” comprises interviews extracted from the controversial book “The Love You Make” (1983), co-authored by Steven Gaines and Peter Brown, who served as personal assistant to Beatles manager Brian Epstein.

The book promises unprecedented insights into the Beatles’ story, featuring exclusive interviews with Paul McCartney, Yoko Ono, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, as well as their acquaintances, relatives, and business associates. It’s hailed as a definitive account, offering new revelations about the world’s biggest band.

Additionally, the upcoming release delves into a memorable encounter involving Lennon that left The Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger feeling uneasy.

In related news, Paul McCartney praised Beyoncé’s rendition of The Beatles’ ‘Blackbird’ as “fantastic,” applauding its role in promoting racial equality. McCartney expressed, “I believe she delivers a brilliant rendition that reinforces the civil rights message that inspired me to compose the song originally.”