Music fans around the world are celebrating what would have been John Lennon’s 70th birthday today (October 9).

The former Beatle was shot dead outside his New York home in December 1980.

Celebrations are being led by Lennon’s widow Yoko Ono, who is due to perform with the Plastic Ono Band in Iceland.

In New York, fans are also expected to visit Strawberry Fields in Central Park as well as a benefit concert.

Three authorised time capsules have also been buried to mark the occasion. The capsules include Lennon's post-Beatles recordings, as well as contributions from fans.

Along with Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, Lennon pioneered music in the Beatles.

He was killed in 1980 by Mark Chapman, who earlier this year admitted that murdering the Beatle was a “horrible decision”. He has been denied parole.

(by Jason Gregory)