Beatles, The. Vocal and instr. Eng. pop group (guitars and drums) who attained worldwide popularity and critical acclaim during 1960s, chiefly in songs by 2 of the members, John Lennon (b Liverpool, 1940; d NY, 1980) and Paul McCartney (b Liverpool, 1942). Formed and named in Liverpool c.1957 by Lennon, with McCartney and George Harrison (b Liverpool, 1943). Played at Casbah and Cavern Clubs, Liverpool, until invited to Hamburg, 1960, where 2 extra members were Stuart Sutcliffe (electric bass guitar) and Pete Best (drums). Sutcliffe died 1962. Best was replaced by Ringo Starr (orig. Richard Starkey, b Liverpool, 1940). Group's nat. popularity as qt. ( Lennon, McCartney, Harrison, and Starr) began 1962 under management of Brian Epstein (b Liverpool, 1935; d London, 1967), followed by highly successful tours of USA and elsewhere. Term ‘Beatlemania’ coined to describe adulation accorded them, not only by the young. Among songs written by Lennon and McCartney were Please, please me, She loves you, Yesterday, Eleanor Rigby, Yellow submarine, and Hey Jude. Each of group became MBE, 1965. Group made several films; record sales were phenomenal. Ceased performing together 1969, partnership being later legally dissolved. McCartney formed new group called ‘Wings’, Lennon settled in USA where he was shot dead, Harrison continued to record, performing only rarely, and Starr continued to record and to perform in films.