The Beatles changed music forever. But what happened when the Fab Four went their separate ways? Peter Jackson’s ‘Get Back’ documentary reminded us of their incredible chemistry, but their individual journeys in the 1970s are just as fascinating. Each Beatle forged a unique solo path, gifting us a treasure trove of amazing music. Get ready to explore ten essential solo albums that show John, Paul, George, and Ringo still had plenty of magic to share after the breakup.
10. McCartney (1970) – Paul McCartney
The Beatles’ breakup hit everyone hard, and Paul McCartney especially felt the sting. In 1970, with encouragement from his wife Linda, Paul channeled his feelings into his first solo album. He played every instrument himself, creating a raw, homemade feel that’s full of charm. This isn’t a super polished record, but that’s its beauty.
Songs like “The Lovely Linda” show his deep love for his wife, while tracks like “Every Night” and “Junk” are gentle reflections on simple joys amidst big changes. The standout masterpiece, “Maybe I’m Amazed,” is a powerful piano ballad. It feels like a grown-up sequel to Beatles classics like “Hey Jude.” Paul pours all his emotions about the breakup and moving forward into this song, a true anthem of facing adulthood. It’s so iconic that artists like Rod Stewart and Billy Joel have even covered it.
9. Beaucoup of Blues (1970) – Ringo Starr
Many thought Ringo Starr might struggle as a solo artist. His first solo effort, ‘Sentimental Journey,’ was sweet but didn’t showcase his unique style. However, Ringo quickly followed it up with ‘Beaucoup of Blues,’ an album perfectly suited to his distinctive voice and love for country music. He even traveled to Nashville to capture that authentic sound.
Working with Pete Drake, Ringo crafted an album that’s both respectful and true to the country genre he adored since childhood. The title track, “Beaucoup of Blues,” is a fan favorite. But other gems like the romantic “I Wouldn’t Have You Any Other Way” and the heartfelt “Loser’s Lounge” really show off Ringo’s emotive singing. This album proved Ringo was a capable frontman when given material that fit his style. He truly found his voice in the heart of country music.
8. All Things Must Pass (1970) – George Harrison
Often underestimated during his time with The Beatles, George Harrison had a huge backlog of songs waiting to be heard. When he finally got the chance, he released ‘All Things Must Pass’ – a massive triple album! While the third disc of jam sessions might be for dedicated fans, the first two are pure gold.
These songs reveal George as a deep thinker, searching for peace and truth. “Wah Wah,” born from Beatle frustrations, features an incredible guitar riff. Tracks like “Awaiting on You All” offer strong opinions, while “Hear Me Lord” is a humble prayer. The beautiful title track, “All Things Must Pass,” shows a wisdom gained from his spiritual journeys. Producer Phil Spector was amazed, saying George had “literally hundreds of songs, and each one was better than the rest.” This album was George stepping into the spotlight, his talent undeniable.
7. Plastic Ono Band (1970) – John Lennon
George wasn’t the only Beatle with a lot to say. John Lennon, filled with intense emotions from his difficult childhood, finally let it all out on ‘Plastic Ono Band.’ This album is incredibly raw and personal. He bravely explores painful topics like the loss of his mother in “Mother” and his frustrations with society in “Working Class Hero” and “Well, Well, Well.”
John himself said these songs were continuations of his personal songwriting journey, from “I’m a Loser” to “Strawberry Fields.” His partner, Yoko Ono, encouraged him to make art that was completely honest. Showing his commitment, John played all the guitar solos himself, with his reliable former bandmate Ringo Starr backing him on drums. It’s a stark, powerful, and deeply moving listen.
6. Imagine (1971) – John Lennon
After the intense emotion of ‘Plastic Ono Band,’ John Lennon returned with ‘Imagine.’ This became his most famous solo album and the last one he made in England. It has a distinctly “English” feel, even on rockier tracks like “Crippled Inside.” Despite its global anthem title track, much of the album feels personal and reflective.
There are many beautiful moments. “Oh Yoko!” is a joyful celebration of his marriage, and “Oh My Love” is a tender ballad. Perhaps most tellingly, “Jealous Guy” hinted at John wanting to mend fences with Paul McCartney. Paul reportedly understood the gesture, and it helped ease tensions between the former songwriting partners. ‘Imagine’ offers a softer, more hopeful side of Lennon.
5. Ringo (1973) – Ringo Starr
Believe it or not, for a while, Ringo Starr was enjoying huge chart success! Hits like “It Don’t Come Easy” and the rocking, drum-driven “Back Off Boogaloo” (which might have had a little help from Paul McCartney) were massive. Ringo was also the Beatle who stayed on good terms with everyone.
So, for his 1973 album ‘Ringo,’ he asked his old bandmates for help. Paul gave him the cheerful pop song “Six O’Clock.” John offered “I’m the Greatest,” a powerful track featuring George Harrison’s fiery guitar. John felt he couldn’t sing “I’m the greatest” himself without sounding arrogant, but it was perfect for Ringo! Best of all, the album featured “Photograph,” a fantastic song co-written by Ringo and George. This album was a true testament to their lasting friendships.
4. Band on the Run (1973) – Paul McCartney & Wings
Sometimes, tough times lead to incredible music. Paul McCartney often said he did his best work when facing challenges, and ‘Band on the Run’ is proof. With two members of his band Wings quitting right before recording, Paul ended up playing many instruments himself. To make things even harder, he was mugged in Lagos, Nigeria, and lost demo tapes of the songs!
Despite the setbacks, the album became a masterpiece. It’s packed with amazing pop tracks. Songs like “Jet” are still staples in Paul’s live shows, and “Let Me Roll It” is a bluesy rocker. For many, the epic “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five” with its incredible piano is a highlight. Paul described it as a collection of songs with a loose theme of escape. It’s an album full of energy, melody, and pure McCartney magic.
3. Walls and Bridges (1974) – John Lennon
While Paul McCartney was hitting a creative high, John Lennon was going through a tough patch. His recent albums hadn’t thrilled critics, and his separation from Yoko Ono was taking a toll. But, just like he did in 1970, John turned his personal struggles into powerful art. ‘Walls and Bridges’ stands as one of his last truly great solo albums.
The songs are deeply emotional. “Going Down On Love” features a heartbreaking plea for help. “Steel and Glass” is a stark, reflective piece. The folk ballad “Nobody Loves You (When You’re Down and Out)” is both vocally intense and musically rich. But there are brighter moments too: the dreamy “#9 Dream” even features his girlfriend at the time, May Pang. And Elton John joins in for the upbeat hit “Whatever Gets You Thru the Night.” This album captures John at a crossroads, full of honesty and soul.
2. Venus and Mars (1975) – Paul McCartney & Wings
With their fourth album, Wings really hit their stride. Paul McCartney was now comfortable sharing the songwriting spotlight with his bandmates. Guitarist Denny Laine takes the lead vocal on the mystical “Spirits of Ancient Egypt.” New guitarist Jimmy McCulloch delivers “Medicine Jar,” a raw track about his wild lifestyle.
Linda McCartney also shines, especially on the beautiful “Love In Song” with her lovely high harmonies. The album kicks off with “Rock Show,” a big concert opener that even nods to bands like Led Zeppelin, who were carrying the rock torch in the seventies. Other highlights include the bluesy “Call Me Back Again” and the charming, 1920s-style “You Gave Me The Answer.” ‘Venus and Mars’ showed that Paul could create fantastic music with a new team, proving Wings was a formidable band in its own right.
1. George Harrison (1979) – George Harrison
After a difficult tour in 1974, George Harrison spent much of the mid-70s quietly at his home. But his optimistic spirit eventually led him back to the studio to create the wonderfully upbeat ‘George Harrison’ album. It was his most well-received work since ‘All Things Must Pass’.
A big reason for this new energy was becoming a father in 1978. This joy shines through in songs like “Blow Away,” a vibrant pop tune with one of George’s most heartfelt guitar solos. He wrote “Sweet Dark Lady” for his wife, Olivia, celebrating her heritage and their life together. “Faster” is a cool tribute to the Formula 1 race car drivers George admired. As George himself said, “My life is getting better all the time, and I’m happy, and I think that it’s reflected in the music.” This album set a warm, positive tone for his music in the 1980s.
The 1970s were a time of incredible musical exploration for John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Each Beatle, in his own way, stepped out from the shadow of the world’s biggest band to create music that was personal, powerful, and often groundbreaking. These ten albums are just a starting point, but they offer a fantastic glimpse into the diverse talents of four musicians who continued to shape the sound of popular music long after The Beatles said goodbye.
What are your favorite solo Beatle albums from this era? Did we miss any of your top picks? Leave your comment below and let’s talk music!
