The Beatles breakup in 1970 marked the start of successful solo careers for each of the four members. It's challenging to definitively say who had the "most" successful solo career, as success can be measured in various ways, such as album sales, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and longevity. Each member achieved significant success in their solo endeavors, and their styles and genres varied, appealing to different audiences.
However, two members of The Beatles stand out in terms of their solo achievements:
Paul McCartney: Paul McCartney had a highly successful solo career and remains one of the most influential figures in the music industry. He formed the band Wings in 1971, which released several commercially successful albums throughout the '70s. Some of his most famous solo hits include "Maybe I'm Amazed," "Band on the Run," "Live and Let Die," and "Jet." McCartney has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and his concerts continue to draw massive audiences worldwide.
John Lennon: John Lennon also had a remarkable solo career after The Beatles. His 1971 album "Imagine" is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. Hits like "Imagine," "Instant Karma!," and "Give Peace a Chance" are some of his most iconic solo works. Lennon's music often carried powerful messages about peace and social issues. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1980, which added to his posthumous cultural impact.
It's important to note that George Harrison and Ringo Starr also had successful solo careers. George Harrison's album "All Things Must Pass" from 1970 was highly acclaimed, and he had several hit singles during his solo years. Ringo Starr found success with his solo albums and had several hit songs like "Photograph" and "It Don't Come Easy."
Ultimately, each member of The Beatles achieved significant success in their solo careers, and their contributions to music post-breakup have left a lasting legacy on the industry and continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans.