The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960, featuring John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. Widely considered the most influential group in popular music history, they shaped 1960s culture and redefined the concept of the modern pop band. Drawing on skiffle, beat music, and early rock and roll, their sound blended classical, folk, Indian, psychedelic, and hard rock elements, continually pushing musical boundaries. Starting out in Liverpool and Hamburg clubs, the band rose to fame after signing with EMI and releasing "Love Me Do" in 1962, sparking a global phenomenon known as Beatlemania. Managed by Brian Epstein and produced by George Martin, the Beatles transformed recording and songwriting, becoming symbols of youth and cultural change. International superstardom arrived in 1964 with the "British Invasion" of the US. The Beatles released a series of groundbreaking albums—such as Rubber Soul, Revolver, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, the White Album, and Abbey Road—that left a lasting impact on music, fashion, and culture. They stopped touring in 1966 to focus on studio work, experimenting with new musical and visual styles. Following their breakup in 1970, all four members found solo success, but the original group never reunited. The Beatles remain the best-selling music act of all time, with over 600 million records sold, and hold numerous chart and sales records. Their many honors include eight Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their legacy continues to influence artists and audiences worldwide.