Beatles, Stones & the Music Island

Great Britain invented modern pop music — or at least shaped it so fundamentally that it feels that way. The British Invasion of the 1960s — led by the Beatles and the Rolling Stones — changed music forever.

The Beatles (1960–1970) are the best-selling band of all time. Liverpool is the pilgrimage site: Cavern Club, Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, the childhood homes of John and Paul. In London: Abbey Road Studios (the zebra crossing in front is the most photographed pedestrian crossing in the world).

Afterwards: Led Zeppelin, The Who, David Bowie (Berlin Trilogy, but from London), Queen (Freddie Mercury), The Clash and the Sex Pistols (Punk, 1976), The Smiths and Joy Division (Manchester), Oasis and Blur (Britpop of the 90s), Radiohead, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa. Glastonbury (June) is the most legendary music festival in the world.