Without George Martin I wonder (and possibly doubt) The Beatles would have matured musically as well (and quickly) as they did. R.I.P. Sir George...Blue skies.

Legendary songwriter. R.I.P. George.

I fully agree Andrew and George was a strong talent in his own right. Many have tried to claim the title,but he truly was the "fifth Beatle".

It's true to say that without George, The Beatles would not ,most likely, be held in the regard they still are to this day.

The same can be said for Bernie Taupin in connection with Elton John.

I was never the most avid fan of The Beatles, but early upbeat songs like Can't Buy Me Love and I Saw Her Standing There, are still great favourites of mine.

I actually think in this era, The Searchers matched them pound for pound and yet, this is a band hardly ever spoken of.
The "Strawberry Fields" and "Sergeant Peppers..... wacky backy psychedelic rock stuff, did nothing for me.

If I want that kinda thing it's "Dark Side Of The Moon" for me.

I must admit I'm a huge Beatles fan through and through,guilty as charged . Excellent point about Bernie Taupin as Elton would have never risen to such stardom without him.