2018 First-Class Forever Stamp,Music Icons Series: Jonh Lennon,Red/Violet

U.S. #5313

2018 50¢ John Lennon Red-Violet – Music Icons Series

Value:  50¢ 1-ounce First-Class Rate (Forever)

Issue Date:  September 7, 2018

First Day City:  New York, NY

Type of Stamp:  Commemorative

Printed by:  Banknote Corporation o...  more

U.S. #5313

2018 50¢ John Lennon Red-Violet – Music Icons Series

Value:  50¢ 1-ounce First-Class Rate (Forever)

Issue Date:  September 7, 2018

First Day City:  New York, NY

Type of Stamp:  Commemorative

Printed by:  Banknote Corporation of America

Printing Method:  Offset

Format:  Pane of 16

Self-Adhesive

Quantity Printed:  40,000,000

In the 1960s, the Beatles became one of the most influential rock bands of all time.  Their infectious tunes captivated the world's youth.  As co-writer of most of the group's songs, John Lennon is considered one of the greatest composers of all time.

Early on, the other Beatles idolized Lennon.  Paul McCartney said "He was like our own little Elvis...  We all looked up to John...  he was very much the leader."  During those early years, Lennon and McCartney worked closely writing most of the band's songs together.  While they would eventually work more independently, they always shared equal credit on any song either of them wrote.

"Beatlemania" hit the United Kingdom in 1963.  A year later, the band debuted in America on The Ed Sullivan Show.  This marked the start of a busy two years of writing, recording, and constant touring.  Soon, Lennon became disillusioned with live performances.  He worried no one could hear the music over the screaming fans.  In 1966, they stopped touring and focused on writing, recording, and making movies.

Amid artistic differences, the Beatles embarked on solo projects and parted ways in 1970.  Though their friendships were strained, Lennon would later say, "I still love those guys.  The Beatles are over, but John, Paul, George, and Ringo go on."