John Lennon — Timeline
Key moments in the life of John Lennon.
1940
Born John Winston Lennon on October 9 in Liverpool, England
1956
Formed his first band, The Quarrymen, at age 15
1960
The Beatles formed in Liverpool with Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Pete Best
1963
The Beatles achieved massive popularity in the UK with albums 'Please Please Me' and 'With the Beatles'
1964
The Beatles arrived in New York and appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show, sparking Beatlemania in America
1966
The Beatles stopped touring to focus on studio recording, beginning their experimental period
1969
The Beatles performed their final live concert on the Apple rooftop on January 30
1970
The Beatles officially disbanded; Lennon began his solo career
1971
Released solo album 'Imagine,' which became one of his most celebrated works
1980
Died on December 8 in New York City at age 40 from gunshot wounds