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A highly influential British instrumental rock group, primarily active from 1958 to 1990, renowned for their distinctive guitar sound and as the backing band for Cliff Richard.Formed in London in 1958 as The Drifters, the band became The Shadows in 1959 to avoid confusion with the American vocal group. The classic lineup featured Hank Marvin (lead guitar), Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar), Jet Harris (bass), and Tony Meehan (drums).They achieved massive success both as Cliff Richard's backing band and with their own instrumental hits, dominating the UK charts throughout the 1960s.They disbanded in 1990 but have had several reunion performances since.

• Jet Harris and Tony Meehan left the band in 1962 at the height of their success to form a duo, causing significant internal tension; their replacements were Brian Bennett (drums) and Brian Locking (bass), later succeeded by John Rostill.
• Bruce Welch temporarily left the band in 1968 due to severe stage fright, replaced briefly by John Farrar.
• Bassist John Rostill died tragically in 1973 by accidental electrocution at his home recording studio.
• The Shadows' clean-cut image and matching suits were iconic in the early 1960s, contrasting with the raw energy of contemporary American rock and roll.
• Hank Marvin's use of the distinctive red Fender Stratocaster (one of the first in the UK) and the Vox AC30 amplifier defined their signature sound, influencing countless guitarists.