John Lennon was an English singer, songwriter, musician, and peace activist, born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, and died on December 8, 1980, in New York City. He gained worldwide fame as the founder, co-lead vocalist, and rhythm guitarist of the Beatles, one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history
. Lennon formed his first band, The Quarrymen, in his teens, which eventually evolved into the Beatles with the addition of Paul McCartney and George Harrison. His songwriting partnership with McCartney is considered the most successful in music history. Lennon was initially the de facto leader of the Beatles and contributed many innovative songs such as "Strawberry Fields Forever." Beyond music, he was also an author, graphic artist, and film participant
. After the Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon pursued a solo career and collaborated extensively with his second wife, Yoko Ono, including forming the Plastic Ono Band. He was known for his peace activism, with songs like "Give Peace a Chance," "Imagine," and "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" becoming anthems for the anti-war movement and 1960s counterculture
. Lennon's life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed by Mark David Chapman outside his New York apartment building in 1980. His death shocked the world, but his music and message of peace continue to inspire generations
. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, having won numerous awards including seven GRAMMYs and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame
