History

In 1957, John Lennon formed a music group with his school buddies. Over time, Paul McCartney joined the group and in 1958, George Harrison joined as the lead guitarist. They did not keep a constant name.

Five years later, THE BEATLES fired their previous drummer, Pete Best, and hired the famed Ringo Starr. The band's recording sessions yielded the minor hit "Love Me Do". During these years, The Beatles were known for performing in The Cavern, in Liverpool, as pictured below.

The Beatles at The Cavern

The era known as Beatlemania began in 1963, after The Beatles recieved significant airtime in the U.S. and then appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show in the beginning of 1964. Despite the rising popularity, The Beatles were criticized for "lack of musical skill, and scandalously long hair" and after John Lennon's unwise comment that The Beatles were "more popular than Jesus", the band recieved much scathing criticism and opposition.

The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show

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