England – George Harrison and Paul McCartney

The early days of the Beatles were marked by a bond that started with two young lads from Liverpool, England—George Harrison and Paul McCartney. Their friendship began in 1956, when a 14-year-old George was spotted by Paul on the bus, with his guitar in hand. This serendipitous meeting sparked a fast friendship, setting the stage for the formation of one of the most iconic music groups in history. George, who was a skilled guitarist even at a young age, soon became a central part of the group that would go on to redefine modern music. The year 1956 is significant not only for this encounter but also for the growing musical landscape in Liverpool, as local bands like the Quarrymen, which later became the Beatles, began to emerge. By 1958, the Quarrymen recorded “In Spite of All the Danger,” a song that holds special significance in Beatles history as the only song co-written by George Harrison and Paul McCartney during their early years, before John Lennon joined the band.

As we continue to honor George Harrison’s musical legacy, it’s important to reflect on how close the band members were. Paul McCartney often spoke about his deep bond with George, referring to him as a brother, and their shared musical journey is evident in their collaboration. This early photograph of George and Paul swimming together in 1956 serves as a poignant reminder of their long-lasting friendship and the roots of the Beatles’ iconic sound. The group, later joined by John Lennon and Ringo Starr, created a musical revolution that captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Their time together, from the formation of the Beatles to their individual legacies, has left an indelible mark on both the history of music and popular culture. As we celebrate George Harrison’s life, his influence continues to inspire fans and musicians alike, cementing his place as a key figure in the Beatles’ unforgettable story.