Recording Timeline
Key dates and milestones in the Beatles’ recording history, from the Quarrymen era to the legacy years.
The Quarrymen
John Lennon’s skiffle group, The Quarrymen, make their earliest known recordings. Paul McCartney joins the group.
George Harrison Joins
George Harrison joins The Quarrymen. The group continues to develop their sound through home recordings.
The Beatles Form
The group officially adopts the name ‘The Beatles’ and begins performing in Hamburg, Germany.
EMI & Abbey Road
The Beatles begin recording at EMI’s Abbey Road Studios with producer George Martin. Ringo Starr joins as drummer. ‘Love Me Do’ is released.
Please Please Me & Beatlemania
The Beatles record and release Please Please Me and With the Beatles. Beatlemania sweeps across the United Kingdom.
The British Invasion
A Hard Day’s Night and Beatles for Sale are released. The Beatles conquer America and perform on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Help! & Rubber Soul
The Beatles release Help! and Rubber Soul, marking a significant artistic evolution. They play Shea Stadium.
Revolver & Final Tour
Revolver pushes boundaries with innovative studio techniques. The Beatles play their final concert at Candlestick Park.
Sgt. Pepper’s & MMT
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band redefines popular music. Magical Mystery Tour follows. Brian Epstein passes away.
The White Album
The Beatles (White Album) is recorded during a period of creative tension. Apple Corps is founded.
Abbey Road & Get Back
The Get Back sessions at Twickenham and Apple Studios, culminating in the rooftop concert. Abbey Road becomes their final recorded album.
Let It Be & The End
Let It Be is released. Paul McCartney announces his departure. The Beatles officially disband.
Solo Careers Begin
All four Beatles pursue solo careers. Collaborations and reunions would continue over the following decades.
Anthology Project
The surviving Beatles reunite for the Anthology project, producing new recordings including ‘Free as a Bird’.
Free as a Bird
‘Free as a Bird’ is released, featuring all four Beatles through a restored John Lennon demo.
Remastered Catalogue
The complete Beatles catalogue is digitally remastered and re-released in both stereo and mono.