Paul McCartney

English singer-songwriter, composer, and musician, performing as a member of The Beatles (1960-1970), a member of the band Wings (1971-1981), and a solo artist. Responsible for composing the majority of the tunes that brought the Beatles to the attention of serious music critics. In retrospective reviews of the late twentieth century, The Beatles were cited repeatedly as a cultural phenomenon and revered as the most successful band in the history of rock and roll. As a performer or songwriter, with thirty-one number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Composed film scores, classical and electronic music, released a large catalogue of songs as a solo artist, and has taken part in projects to help international charities. He is an advocate for animal rights, vegetarianism, and music education. His many honors include being knighted in 1997, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2010, election to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1999), and the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song (2010).