Yoko Ono Fights Ageism, Takes on Critics

Yoko Ono is no stranger to criticism, but now the 82-year-old entertainer is taking a stand against all the haters...and, specifically, the ones who are going after the one thing she can't change: Her age.

Last week, in honor of her February 18 birthday, the singer released two new songs, reminding people that she’s still out there making music and performing. Needless to say, artists and critics go hand in hand -- so on Monday, Yoko posted an open letter to those who’ve knocked her on her website, Imagine Peace.

She expressed how she feels about being an octogenarian entertainer, saying, “Please don’t stop me being the way I am. I don’t want to be old and sick like many others of my age. Please don’t create another old person.”

As for some of the critiques she’s received, she said, “They demand the musical standard of a classic musician and attack me for the rhythm or some notes which are not precisely in tune. I am not concerned with what my voice is doing.”

And don’t get Yoko started on her fashion choices. She is adamant that her years have no weight when it comes to selecting what she feels like wearing. When criticized about the length of her shorts in a music video, she asked, “Was that bad? You are not criticizing other dancers whose pants are worn short.”

Well, Yoko, haters gonna hate, but when you’re 82 and going strong -- best to keep doing what you’re doing!

And while Yoko is sticking to her guns, now's a good time to remind you to check out the Stick to Your Guns show in Philadelphia tonight, February 24. The stream is live at 6:40 p.m. PT and you can check it out here.