John Lennon
	(1940 - 1980)
	Lennon was usually considered the "leader" of The Beatles, as he founded the original group, inviting Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and his art-school friend (Stuart Sutcliffe) to join. The group decisions were democratic, with the rule that if any member objected to an idea, the group wouldn't pursue it. Lennon played rhythm guitar,while George Harrison played lead guitar and McCartney bass guitar after bassist Sutcliffe left the group. Lennon occasionally played keyboards, as did McCartney. Ringo Starr, brought into the group last, played drums. As recording technology improved, and they were doing more work in the studio than live, overdubbing was used so that Lennon might provide the harmony parts as well as the lead for his songs. The "Beatles" sound was a three-part harmony with Lennon or McCartney singing lead, and harmony provided by the others.

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