The Byrds

Formed in Los Angeles in 1964, The Byrds original lineup was Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, and Michael Clarke. The band underwent multiple lineup changes throughout its existence, with McGuinn being the only constant member until the group disbanded in 1973. Although The Byrds only managed to attain commercial success for a short time in 1965 and 1966, they are considered by critics to be one of the most influential bands of the 1960s. The first single released by the band, Mr. Tambourine Man, reached #1 on both the U.S. and British charts within three months. The album of the same name was released shortly after and reached #6 on the Billboard charts. The band had a tumultuous time during 1967 and 1968 with numerous members leaving, including Crosby and Clarke. The Byrds continued touring and releasing albums until early 1973, when they played their final shows on the East coast. The Byrds were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. In 2004, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked the group #45 on its list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.”