John Lennon

John Lennon, born John Winston Lennon, was an iconic figure in the music industry known as the cofounder of The Beatles, and later as a solo artist. Lennon was introduced to music by his mother who taught him how to play the banjo. In 1956, Lennon formed his first band, The Quarrymen, which eventually evolved into The Beatles.

As a member of The Beatles, alongside Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, the band became a global phenomenon in the 1960, producing hits like “Strawberry Fields Forever,” “Let It Be” and “All You Need Is Love.”

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as Imagine and Double Fantasy. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades including two Grammy Awards (including a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991), a BRIT Award, inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Lennon married Cynthia Powell in 1962, and shared a son, Julian (born April 1963). After their 1968 divorce, Lennon married artist Yoko Ono in 1969. They shared one son, Sean (born October 1975).

On December 8, 1980, Lennon died in New York City. He was shot by Mark David Chapman, who is still serving a life sentence in prison.