The Byrds GRC History of Rock

American Rock Band from Los Angeles, California

Formed in 1964

Most popular from 65-66, they performed in some capacity until they disbanded in 1973

Critically acclaimed for their melding of folk music with the music of the british invasion bands.

Like many bands of the era, the birds covered other musicians, including Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger.

Their original songs were also popular.

Other artists covered their work. Including:

The original five-piece line-up of the Byrds consisted of Jim McGuinn (lead guitar, vocals), Gene Clark (tambourine, vocals), David Crosby (rhythm guitar, vocals), Chris Hillman (bass guitar, vocals), and Michael Clarke (drums).

However, this version of the band was relatively short-lived and by early 1966, Clark had left due to problems associated with anxiety and his increasing isolation within the group.

The Byrds continued as a quartet until late 1967, when Crosby and Clarke also departed the band. McGuinn and Hillman decided to recruit new members, including country rock pioneer Gram Parsons, but by late 1968, Hillman and Parsons had also exited the band.

McGuinn, who by this time had changed his name to Roger after a flirtation with the Subud religion, elected to rebuild the band's membership and between 1968 and 1973, he helmed a new incarnation of the Byrds, featuring guitarist Clarence White among others.

McGuinn disbanded the then current line-up in early 1973, to make way for a reunion of the original quintet. The Byrds' final album was released in March 1973, with the reunited group disbanding soon afterwards

Inducted to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991

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