The relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney had become increasingly strained in the latter years of The Beatles, with the pair exchanging barbs through their solo music

John Lennon did not suffer fools gladly. The Beatles rose to such a lofty position that very few ever tried to tackle them until the 1970s came along.

George Harrison left the band briefly during the Get Back sessions, frustrated with his role with The Beatles and the tense atmosphere they were working in. During a band meeting on September 20, 1969, John Lennon said he wanted a "divorce" from the group, beginning the end of The Beatles.

Paul McCartney and John Lennon's friendship forged not just a songwriting duo but a phenomenon that became the cornerstone of The Beatles' stardom. Together they created countless classics, all under the dual signature of Lennon-McCartney — a decision made early on in their partnership.

The Beatles went their separate ways in 1970, but John Lennon made a surprising offer to bandmate Paul McCartney years later, and his response was surprising to many