The Extensive Solo Discographies of the Beatles After Their Band Dissolution
The Beatles, the most iconic quartet in the history of popular music, forever transformed the face of rock and roll. However, in 1970, the band called it quits, setting the stage for an era of individual artistic expression for each member. This article explores the extensive solo discography of each Beatle, delving into their post-Beatle contributions as accomplished solo artists.
John Lennon
After his alliance with Yoko Ono, John Lennon embarked on a career as a prolific solo artist. His extensive solo discography includes 13 full-length albums, as well as several compilation albums released posthumously. His journey post-Beatles began with 'Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins' and 'Unfinished Music No. 2: Life with the Lions,' avant-garde works that showcased his artistic evolution. Following these pioneer works, the unconventional 'Wedding Album' and live performances such as 'Live Peace in Toronto' further validated his status as an innovative musician.
Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins Unfinished Music No. 2: Life with the Lions Wedding Album Live Peace in Toronto Plastic Ono Band Imagine Some Time in New York City Mind Games Walls and Bridges Rock and Roll Shaved Fish Milk and HoneyPosthumously, Lennon left behind 'Milk and Honey.' Additionally, live and compilation albums continued to be released, ensuring his musical legacy lived on.
Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney, the former bassist and one of the principal songwriters, also launched a highly successful solo career. His 42 studio albums, often credited with some of the most revolutionary sounds of his era, span diverse genres and styles, from his eponymous debut 'McCartney' to the soulful classics like 'Band on the Run.' Key works in his discography include:
McCartney Ram Wild Life Red Rose Speedway Band on the RunWith Wings, McCartney's supergroup with guitarist Billy Preston, he ventured into new territories with 'Wingspan' and 'Driving Rain,' both critical and commercial successes. His classical works, such as 'Liverpool Oratorio' and 'Ecce Cor Meum,' further cemented his legacy as a versatile artist. McCartney has also dipped into various vinyl formats, releasing 'Off the Ground' and 'EP3.'
George Harrison
George Harrison, the jovial but talented guitarist, struck out on his own with 18 albums. His journey began with the ethereal 'Wonderwall Music' and 'Electronic Sounds.' Posthumous compilations were also released, such as 'The Best of George Harrison.' His last release, 'Time Takes Time,' marked a poignant end to his substantial discography.
Wonderwall Music Electronic Sounds All Things Must Pass Congress for Bangladesh Living in the Material World Dark HorseHe will always be remembered for his contributions to both the Beatles and his captivating solo body of work.
Ringo Starr
Ringo Starr, the drummer and former jokester, also left his mark on the world of solo music. With a total of 27 albums, Ringo carved out an impressive legacy with songs like 'Beaucoups of Blues' and 'Ringo's Rotogravure.' His discography spans his self-titled debut 'Ringo' to recent releases like 'Postcards from Paradise.' Notably, Ringo has also ventured into EPs, such as 'Zoom In' and 'Change the World.'
Sentimental Journey Beaucoups of Blues Ringo Goodnight Vienna Blast From Your Past Ringo’s RotogravureFurther, Ringo is planning to release his upcoming 'Rewind Forward' EP, ensuring his vibrant legacy continues.
Conclusion
From the unconventional works of John Lennon to the varied and soulful sounds of Paul McCartney and the ethereal genres explored by George Harrison, each Beatle's solo career is deeply intertwined with their rich musical legacy. Ringo Starr's diverse discography serves as a fitting coda to this remarkable musical journey, immortalizing one of music’s most dynamic groups in its own unique way.