The Beatles

The Beatles, considered the most popular and influential band in the history of rock and roll, began as a group of teenagers playing in local nightclubs in England. The four Beatles were George Harrison, John Lennon, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. By 1963, they achieved stardom, and Beatlemania began to spread throughout the world. Some of their most popular songs include "I Want to Hold Your Hand," "A Hard Days Night," "Hey Jude" and "Let it Be." The group also made several successful movies and, through their company Apple Records, served as producers for new young artists. The Beatles disbanded in 1970, and its members went on to successful individual performing careers. Lennon was murdered by a mentally-ill fan in New York in 1980.