The Beatles

From Encyc

The Beatles (1960-1970) were a rock band from Liverpool, England. During their career, the group primarily consisted of John Lennon (rhythm guitar, vocals), Paul McCartney (bass guitar, vocals), George Harrison (lead guitar, vocals) and Ringo Starr (drums, vocals). Although their initial musical style was rooted in 1950s rock and roll, the group worked with different musical genres, ranging from Tin Pan Alley to psychedelic rock. Their clothes, style and statements made them trend-setters, while their growing social awareness saw their influence extend into the social and cultural revolutions of the 1960s. After the band broke up, all four members embarked upon successful solo careers.

The Beatles are one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed bands in the history of music, selling over one billion records internationally. In the United Kingdom, The Beatles released more than 40 different singles, albums, and EPs that reached number one, earning more number one albums than any other group in British history. In the United States, The Beatles have sold more albums than any other band. Rolling Stone magazine ranked The Beatles number one on its list of 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. The Beatles' innovative music and cultural impact helped define the 1960s, and their influence on pop culture is still evident today.