Ringo Starr

Ringo Starr
Ringo Starr
Born	Richard Starkey; July 7, 1940 (age 86); Liverpool, England
Occupation(s)	Musician, actor
Years active	1957–present
Known for	Drummer for the Beatles, solo music career, acting roles

Sir Richard Starkey (born 7 July 1940), better known by his stage name Ringo Starr, is an English musician and actor who rose to worldwide prominence as the drummer for the Beatles. Starr occasionally took on lead vocal duties, most famously on the tracks "Yellow Submarine" and "With a Little Help from My Friends". He was the composer and vocalist for the Beatles songs "Don't Pass Me By" and "Octopus's Garden", in addition to co-writing four other songs. As of 2025, he holds the distinction of being the longest-surviving member of the band.

Following recovery from severe illnesses during his childhood, Starr developed a passion for skiffle music and co-founded the Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group in 1957. By 1960, he had joined Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, gaining moderate recognition in the UK and Hamburg before replacing Pete Best as the Beatles’ drummer in August 1962.

In addition to his work in Beatles films, Starr has appeared in numerous acting roles. After the Beatles disbanded, he achieved solo success with singles such as the US top-ten hit "It Don't Come Easy" and chart-toppers "Photograph" and "You're Sixteen". His highest-charting UK single was "Back Off Boogaloo", which reached number two. The 1973 album Ringo secured top ten positions in both UK and US charts. Starr has also hosted television programs, narrated early episodes of Thomas & Friends, portrayed "Mr. Conductor" on Shining Time Station, and since 1989 has toured with various incarnations of Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band.

Starr’s drumming approach emphasized feel rather than technical virtuosity, influencing contemporary drumming practices such as matched grip technique, lower drum tuning, and muffling drum resonance. He regarded his performance on the Beatles’ track "Rain" as his best work. Inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 1999, he was ranked fifth among drummers by Rolling Stone readers in 2011. Starr has been inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, first as a Beatle in 1988 and later as a solo artist in 2015, and was knighted in 2018 for his contributions to music.

Early life

Richard Starkey entered the world on 7 July 1940 at 9 Madryn Street in Dingle, Liverpool, an inner-city neighborhood. He was the sole child born to confectioners Richard Starkey and Elsie Gleave. Elsie had a fondness for singing and dancing, interests she shared with her husband, who was enthusiastic about swing dancing. Prior to their son’s birth, they often attended local ballroom events; however, these outings ceased shortly afterward. Elsie was overly protective during Starkey’s upbringing, while his father gradually withdrew, spending extensive time drinking and dancing in pubs.

In 1944, to reduce housing expenses, the family relocated to 10 Admiral Grove in Dingle; soon after this move, his parents separated and finalized their divorce within a year. Starkey later remarked that he had "no real memories" of his father, who only visited sporadically thereafter. Elsie faced financial hardship relying on support payments and took on various menial jobs before working as a barmaid for twelve years.

At six years old, Starkey suffered appendicitis followed by peritonitis after surgery, which led to a coma lasting several days. His recovery spanned twelve months at Liverpool's Myrtle Street children’s hospital. Upon discharge in 1948, he had missed significant schooling and struggled with illiteracy and weak mathematics skills by age eight. This academic delay caused feelings of isolation and truancy at Sefton Park. With tutoring help from his surrogate sister Marie Maguire Crawford, he nearly caught up academically but then contracted tuberculosis in 1953, necessitating two years spent in a sanatorium. There, medical staff encouraged patients to join the hospital band; Starkey’s interest in percussion began with improvised drumsticks. He became increasingly fascinated with drumming after receiving a song as a recuperation gift that further inspired him.

Starkey attended St Silas Church of England primary school near his home—where peers gave him the nickname "Lazarus"—followed by Dingle Vale Secondary Modern School. He demonstrated skills in art, drama, and practical subjects like mechanics but missed taking the 11-plus exam required for grammar school due to extended hospital stays. After recovering from tuberculosis, he preferred staying indoors listening to music and practicing percussion using household objects.

In 1954, Elsie remarried Harry Graves, an ex-Londoner who introduced Starkey to big band music and vocalists such as Dinah Shore and Sarah Vaughan. Graves developed a positive rapport with Starkey; Starkey credited him with teaching him kindness.

Beatles biographer Bob Spitz characterized Starkey’s early years as "a Dickensian chronicle of misfortune," emphasizing the harsh living conditions within one of Liverpool’s oldest inner-city districts marked by poverty and violent crime. Children often sought refuge at Prince's Park to escape the area’s soot-laden air. Starkey recalled having to "keep your head down" amid these difficulties.

After leaving the sanatorium in late 1955, Starkey encountered challenges securing stable employment. He briefly worked for British Rail but failed the physical examination leading to dismissal. He then served as a waiter on a day boat traveling between Liverpool and North Wales but resigned due to concerns over military conscription. In mid-1956, Graves helped him obtain an apprenticeship as a machinist at Henry Hunt and Son, a Liverpool-based manufacturer of school equipment. There he befriended Roy Trafford, who introduced him to skiffle music—a genre that quickly captivated Starkey.

Early Bands

Shortly after Trafford introduced Starkey to skiffle, they practiced songs together during factory lunch breaks. With the addition of guitarist Eddie Miles, they established the Eddie Miles Band, which later became Eddie Clayton and the Clayton Squares. The group performed well-known skiffle tunes, featuring Starkey on washboard and percussion with rudimentary rhythms. Starkey also briefly took dance lessons from Trafford to improve their stage appeal.

In December 1957, Graves gifted Starkey a used drum kit, which enhanced his musical abilities and increased the band's commercial potential. The ensemble landed several significant local performances before skiffle's popularity waned in early 1958 as American rock and roll surged in the UK.

By November 1959, Starkey joined Rory Storm's Texans, a skiffle outfit evolving into rock and roll under the new name Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. Around this period, he adopted the stage name Ringo Starr, inspired by his collection of rings and a country music influence; his solo vocal spots were promoted as Starr Time.

By early 1960, the Hurricanes had become one of Liverpool’s top acts and secured a three-month engagement at Butlins holiday camp in Wales. Despite initial reluctance due to his machinist apprenticeship, Starr agreed to participate. This residency opened doors to further opportunities, including a tour of US Air Force bases in France. Although initially declining a Hamburg residency because of their Butlins commitment, the Hurricanes eventually joined the Beatles at Bruno Koschmider's Kaiserkeller on 1 October 1960, where Starr first encountered them. The Hurricanes held headline status and earned more than the Beatles. Starr occasionally performed alongside the Beatles during their Hamburg shows and contributed to a recording session backing Hurricanes vocalist Lu Walters on "Summertime" on 15 October 1960. During this time, he also met Tony Sheridan, who admired his drumming and invited him to join his band.

Replacing Best

In January 1962, Starr departed from Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, briefly played with Sheridan in Hamburg, then returned to the Hurricanes for a third season at Butlins. On 14 August, he accepted John Lennon’s offer to join the Beatles. Two days later, manager Brian Epstein dismissed drummer Pete Best, citing dissatisfaction with his performance and compatibility. Starr made his debut with the group on 18 August 1962 at a horticultural society event in Port Sunlight. After his first appearance at the Cavern Club, fans upset by Best’s removal staged protests that escalated tensions, prompting Epstein to hire security.

Starr's initial recording session with the Beatles took place on 4 September 1962. Producer George Martin was initially skeptical about Starr’s drumming skills and brought in session drummer Andy White for the 11 September recording of their debut single "Love Me Do" with "P.S. I Love You" as the B-side. Starr contributed tambourine on "Love Me Do" and maracas on "P.S. I Love You". Worried about his position in the band, Starr feared being replaced; however, Martin later clarified that his caution stemmed from unfamiliarity with Starr’s technique.

By November 1962, Starr had won over Beatles fans and began receiving fan mail on par with other members, solidifying his role within the band. He held a minor share in Lennon and McCartney's publishing company Northern Songs, but most of his earnings came from a one-quarter stake in Beatles Ltd., funded by their concert revenues. Embracing his newfound success, Starr frequently enjoyed nightlife and dancing, earning admiration comparable to that of his father.

Global Triumph

The Beatles' fame escalated rapidly in the UK during 1963. Their follow-up single to "Love Me Do," titled "Please Please Me," climbed the British charts, aided by a television appearance on Thank Your Lucky Stars, which significantly increased both sales and radio exposure. By year’s end, Beatlemania had become a nationwide phenomenon. The band's breakthrough on the international stage occurred in February 1964 with their appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, watched by an audience of 73 million. Starr reflected on their widespread appeal, attributing it to being "ordinary lads."^[1] His persona inspired tracks like Penny Valentine's "I Want to Kiss Ringo Goodbye" and Rolf Harris's "Ringo for President". In 1964, Cher debuted her first single, "Ringo, I Love You", under the name Bonnie Joe Mason.

In 1964, lapel pins emblazoned with "I love Ringo" dominated Beatles-related merchandise sales. The visibility of the Ludwig Drums brand on Starr's bass drum head elevated the company's reputation, securing its status as North America's leading drum manufacturer for twenty years.^[2] During live shows, the Beatles incorporated a spotlight segment dubbed "Starr Time," which captivated audiences. Starr's understated performance in their cinematic debut A Hard Day's Night garnered critical acclaim; director Richard Lester included silent scenes to accommodate Starr’s fatigue. Manager Epstein attributed Starr's charm to "the little man's quaintness". Following the release of their second film, Help! (1965), Starr received recognition by winning a Melody Maker poll for his prominent role.

In a 1964 Playboy interview, Lennon remarked that Starr had stepped in when drummer Pete Best was unwell; Starr humorously added: "[Best] took little pills to make him ill". Best subsequently initiated a libel lawsuit lasting four years, culminating in a settlement favorable to him. Prior to the Beatles' 1964 world tour—which included stops in Denmark, the Netherlands, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand—Starr was struck by high fever and tonsillitis, resulting in brief hospitalization. Session drummer Jimmie Nicol replaced him for five concerts before Starr rejoined the group in Melbourne on 15 June. Epstein expressed gratitude to Nicol with a cheque and a gold watch inscribed: "From the Beatles and Brian Epstein to Jimmy – with appreciation and gratitude." Later that year, Starr underwent tonsillectomy during Christmas. He feared being permanently replaced during his illness.^[3] In August, the Beatles encountered American songwriter Bob Dylan, who introduced them to cannabis; Starr was the first member to partake.^[4]

On 11 February 1965, Starr wed Maureen Starkey Tigrett. At the height of Beatlemania, he received a death threat ahead of a Montreal concert and arranged cymbals vertically as a protective barrier. The pressure began to impact their performances; Starr admitted: "We were turning into such bad musicians ... there was no groove." Feeling increasingly isolated as his bandmates pursued new musical directions often without involving him, he spent some recording sessions playing cards with road managers instead of participating fully. When fans requested more vocal contributions from him, Starr responded that he was "quite happy with my one little track on each album".

Studio period

In August 1966, the Beatles unveiled Revolver, which included "Yellow Submarine," marking Starr's sole UK chart-topping single as lead vocalist. Later that month, they held their final live performance at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, concluding a rigorous four-year touring phase. By December, Starr relocated to a more spacious residence named Sunny Heights in Weybridge, Surrey, featuring luxurious comforts but notably lacking a drum set; he explained, "When we don't record, I don't play."

On the 1967 release Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Starr took lead vocals on "With a Little Help from My Friends". Despite the album's acclaim, the prolonged studio sessions intensified his feelings of isolation, as he perceived himself more as a hired musician under Lennon and McCartney’s direction. With limited songwriting opportunities, his contributions were often confined to percussion on others' compositions. In his free time, he honed his guitar playing, particularly enjoying twelve-bar blues sequences.

Following the death of their manager Brian Epstein in August 1967, the Beatles faced the challenge of managing their affairs independently. Starr described this interval as unusual and disorienting. Shortly thereafter, the group embarked on the problematic film venture Magical Mystery Tour, where Starr took on roles as Director of Photography and co-editor alongside McCartney. In February 1968, he became the first Beatle to perform solo on another artist’s program by singing Buck Owens' "Act Naturally" and duetting with Cilla Black.

Apple Records issued The Beatles ("White Album") in November 1968, much of which was penned during a creatively fruitful retreat at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in India. Starr contributed his inaugural Beatles composition, "Don't Pass Me By". However, health concerns and difficulties with local cuisine curtailed his time there.

During the White Album sessions, tensions escalated due to McCartney’s authoritative approach, Lennon’s indirect hostility, and Yoko Ono’s involvement. After McCartney criticized his drumming skills, Starr temporarily left the group and vacationed in Sardinia aboard a vessel lent by actor Peter Sellers. Inspired during this break, he composed "Octopus's Garden", later included on Abbey Road. Upon his return, Harrison greeted him by adorning his drum kit with flowers.

Although relations briefly improved during the White Album's finalization, the production of Let It Be and its accompanying album further strained their dynamics. The band convened for their last recording session at Abbey Road Studios on 20 August 1969. Lennon announced his immediate exit one month later; however, the group's dissolution was only publicly confirmed following McCartney’s announcement in April 1970.

1970s

Prior to McCartney’s departure from the Beatles in April 1970, he and Starr disagreed over solo album release schedules. Starr's first solo effort, Sentimental Journey, featuring classic pre-rock tunes arranged by Quincy Jones, Maurice Gibb, George Martin, and McCartney, achieved number seven in the UK and number 22 in the US charts. His next album, Beaucoups of Blues, produced by Scotty Moore with Nashville session musician Pete Drake and showcasing country influences, received favorable critical reception but did not perform well commercially. During this period, Starr balanced musical pursuits with an emerging film career.

He played drums on Lennon’s John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band (1970), Ono’s Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band (1970), and Harrison’s albums All Things Must Pass (1970), Living in the Material World (1973), and Dark Horse (1974). In 1971, Starr co-wrote "It Don't Come Easy" with Harrison—a hit reaching number four in both UK and US charts. His 1972 single "Back Off Boogaloo", also produced by Harrison, peaked at number two UK and number nine US. That year marked his directorial debut with the T. Rex documentary Born to Boogie.

Between 1973 and 1974, Starr scored two US chart-toppers: "Photograph" (UK number eight), co-written with Harrison, and "You're Sixteen" (UK number four). These hits were part of his successful rock album Ringo, produced by Richard Perry with contributions from all three former bandmates. The album reached number seven in the UK and number two in the US charts and included the US top-five single "Oh My My".

The follow-up album Goodnight Vienna (1974) achieved respectable chart positions—number eight US and number 30 UK—with input from Lennon, Elton John, and Harry Nilsson. It featured notable singles such as "Only You (And You Alone)" (US number six) and "No No Song" (US number three). A promotional video for this album was filmed atop Los Angeles’ Capitol Records Building starring Starr and Nilsson. During this era, Starr was romantically linked to Lynsey de Paul who composed songs inspired by him.

In 1975, Starr launched Ring O' Records, signing eleven artists and releasing fifteen singles along with five albums through 1978; artists included David Hentschel and Graham Bonnet. Despite this business venture, commercial success for his solo work waned. In 2001 he attributed this decline partly to personal distractions involving substance use among himself and friends like Nilsson and Keith Moon; he was part of the Hollywood Vampires drinking circle alongside them.

From late 1960s through mid-1980s, Starr collaborated with designer Robin Cruikshank in ROR—a furniture and interior design company whose products were retailed at Harvey Nichols and Liberty of London. ROR undertook interior projects for palaces in Abu Dhabi and Oman as well as apartments owned by Paul Raymond and Nilsson.

In November 1976, Starr appeared at the Band’s farewell concert documented by Martin Scorsese’s film The Last Waltz. That same year he released Ringo's Rotogravure, his first album under Atlantic Records in North America and Polydor elsewhere. Produced by Arif Mardin with compositions from Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison, it did not chart in the UK despite substantial promotion; however it reached number 28 in the US with minor hits like "A Dose of Rock 'n' Roll" (26) and a cover of "Hey! Baby" (74).

Atlantic then steered Starr towards disco-oriented pop with Ringo the 4th (1977), which failed to chart in the UK and peaked only at 162 in the US charts. His subsequent 1978 release Bad Boy also missed UK charts and reached a modest 129 position in the US.

In April 1979, Starr underwent emergency surgery to address severe intestinal complications originating from childhood peritonitis; several feet of intestine were removed. Three weeks later he performed at Eric Clapton’s wedding alongside McCartney and Harrison. On November 28 that year a fire destroyed his Hollywood residence along with much of his Beatles memorabilia.

1980s

On 19 May 1980, Starr and Barbara Bach survived a serious automobile accident in Surrey, England.

In the aftermath of John Lennon’s assassination in December 1980, Harrison reworked a track originally composed for Starr titled "All Those Years Ago" as a homage. Released in 1981, the single incorporated Starr's drumming and McCartney's backing vocals, achieving the number two spot in the US charts and reaching number 13 in the UK. Later that year, Starr unveiled Stop and Smell the Roses, featuring contributions from Nilsson, McCartney, Harrison, Ronnie Wood, and Stephen Stills. Its lead single, "Wrack My Brain," climbed to number 38 in the US but failed to chart in the UK. Although Lennon had offered songs for this project, Starr chose not to record them following Lennon's death. Subsequently, Starr and Bach traveled to New York to lend their support to Yoko Ono. Beginning in 1981, Starr played drums on McCartney’s solo records Tug of War (1982), Pipes of Peace (1983), and Give My Regards to Broad Street (1984).

Following Stop and Smell the Roses, Starr encountered difficulties releasing new albums. His 1982 effort Old Wave, produced by Joe Walsh, was never issued in either the UK or US markets. In 1987, he halted work on a country album overseen by Chips Moman after legal complications prevented its release. Between 1984 and 1986, Starr served as narrator for the children's series Thomas & Friends and later appeared as Mr. Conductor in its American counterpart Shining Time Station in 1989.

In 1985, Starr collaborated with his son Zak on the protest anthem "Sun City" as part of Artists United Against Apartheid. He also performed alongside Harrison and Eric Clapton on Carl Perkins' television special Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session. In 1987, Starr contributed drums to Harrison’s "When We Was Fab" and appeared in its music video. That same year, he joined Harrison, Clapton, Jeff Lynne, and Elton John at London's Wembley Arena for a Prince's Trust charity event. In January 1988, Starr attended the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony where he accepted the Beatles’ induction alongside Harrison and Yoko Ono.

Toward the end of 1988, both Starr and Bach underwent a six-week alcohol detoxification program in Tucson, Arizona. Reflecting on his struggles with addiction, Starr acknowledged losing several years due to blackout episodes. Embracing sobriety renewed his focus on his career and led to a return to live performances. On 23 July 1989, Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band debuted with a concert in Dallas, Texas before an audience of ten thousand. The ensemble featured accomplished musicians performing both Starr’s Beatles-era classics and solo hits alongside their own songs—a touring formula that persisted for many years.

1990s

The inaugural All-Starr Band tour gave rise to the 1990 live album Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band, which launched a series of live recordings from subsequent tours including Live from Montreux (1993) and Live at the Greek Theatre (2008). Also during 1990, Starr recorded "I Call Your Name" for a television special honoring John Lennon; this track was produced by Jeff Lynne with a supergroup comprising Lynne, Tom Petty, Joe Walsh, and Jim Keltner.

In 1991, Starr made a guest appearance on The Simpsons and contributed "You Never Know" to the soundtrack of John Hughes’ film Curly Sue. His 1992 studio release Time Takes Time, produced by Phil Ramone, Don Was, Lynne, and Peter Asher, included collaborations with artists such as Brian Wilson and Harry Nilsson but did not achieve commercial success. The single "Weight of the World" reached number 74 on UK charts—his first chart entry there since 1974.

Starr joined forces with surviving Beatles members during the mid-1990s for the Beatles Anthology project which produced two new singles: "Free as a Bird" (1995) and "Real Love" (1996). The project concluded when George Harrison opted not to participate in recording a third track. Additionally, Starr played drums on Paul McCartney’s 1997 album Flaming Pie, contributing to songs including "Little Willow" and "Really Love You," the latter credited to McCartney–Starkey.

In 1998, Starr released two albums under Mercury. The studio album Vertical Man marked the start of a nine-year partnership with producer Mark Hudson and featured guest appearances from Martin, Petty, McCartney, and Harrison—this being Harrison’s final contribution to a Starr album. The backing ensemble consisted of Hudson’s Roundheads. That year also saw Starr appear on VH1 Storytellers, performing both classic hits and new material alongside Joe Walsh and the Roundheads. His last Mercury release was the Christmas-themed album I Wanna Be Santa Claus (1999), which did not perform well commercially and was never issued in the UK market.

2000s

In 2002, Starr was honored with induction into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame, joining a prestigious lineup of drummers such as Buddy Rich and both William F. Ludwig Sr. and Jr.. On 29 November that year, marking the first anniversary of George Harrison's passing, Starr performed at the Concert for George held at London's Royal Albert Hall. Early in 2003, he released Ringo Rama, which included the tribute track "Never Without You". That same year, Starr partnered with All-Starr Band member Mark Hudson to establish Pumkinhead Records; their inaugural signing was Liam Lynch, who produced the 2003 album Fake Songs.

During 2003 and 2004, Starr took on the role of honorary Santa Tracker for NORAD during their London segments, lending his voice to the annual Christmas Eve broadcast.

Starr's 2005 album Choose Love marked a shift away from his earlier collaborations with prominent artists but did not achieve chart success in either the UK or US. In that year, Liverpool City Council initially intended to demolish Starr's birthplace at 9 Madryn Street, labeling it insignificant; however, they subsequently opted to carefully dismantle and preserve it brick by brick.

January 2008 saw the release of Liverpool 8, coinciding with Liverpool's designation as European Capital of Culture. After replacing producer Mark Hudson with David A. Stewart due to creative disagreements, Starr performed the album’s title song during the opening ceremony. Nevertheless, he attracted criticism for making disparaging comments about Liverpool and for posting a video admonishing fans who requested autographs.

In April 2009, Starr reunited with McCartney at the David Lynch Foundation's "Change Begins Within" benefit concert at New York’s Radio City Music Hall, performing several numbers including "With a Little Help from My Friends". He also appeared alongside Yoko Ono, McCartney, and Olivia Harrison during Microsoft's June 2009 E3 press event to promote The Beatles: Rock Band video game.

2010s

In 2010, Starr self-produced and released his fifteenth studio album, Y Not, featuring the track "Walk with You" which included McCartney’s vocal contribution. Later that year, he participated as a celebrity phone operator during Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief. On 7 July 2010, Starr celebrated his 70th birthday with an All-Starr Band concert at Radio City Music Hall, joined onstage by Ono, his son Zak, and McCartney.

Starr contributed a cover of Buddy Holly's "Think It Over" to the 2011 tribute album Listen to Me: Buddy Holly. In January 2012, he released the album Ringo 2012. Later that year, he announced an All-Starr Band tour across the Pacific Rim scheduled for 2013, marking his first performances in Japan since 1996 and debut appearances in New Zealand and Australia.

At the 56th Annual Grammy Awards in January 2014, Starr joined McCartney onstage to perform "Queenie Eye". That summer featured a tour across Canada and the US with the Twelfth All-Starr Band lineup, which included multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham. In July, Starr supported "#peacerocks", an anti-violence initiative by designer John Varvatos benefiting the David Lynch Foundation. September 2014 saw him honored at the GQ Men of the Year Awards for his humanitarian efforts.

In January 2015, Starr announced his new studio album Postcards from Paradise, released on 31 March to generally mixed-to-positive feedback. This release preceded his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Later that month, he revealed plans for a Summer 2016 US tour with production beginning in June in Syracuse.

On 7 July 2017, Starr unveiled the single "Give More Love", followed by his nineteenth studio album of the same name issued through UM^e. The record features contributions from McCartney alongside longtime collaborators such as Joe Walsh and David A. Stewart.

In June 2018, Starr embarked on a 44-date tour spanning Europe and North America. The itinerary included two performances in Tel Aviv—his first concerts in Israel—where he conveyed a message centered on "peace and love," becoming only the second former Beatle to play there after McCartney’s 2008 show.

On 13 September 2019, Starr announced his twentieth studio album titled What's My Name, released by UM^e on 25 October. The project was recorded at his home studio Roccabella West in Los Angeles.

2020s

In July 2020, Starr celebrated his 80th birthday with a virtual concert that included performances by collaborators such as McCartney, Walsh, Ben Harper, Dave Grohl, Sheryl Crow, Sheila E., and Willie Nelson. This event took the place of his traditional public party at the Capitol Records Building, which was canceled due to the COVID-19 crisis.

On 16 December 2020, Starr released the track "Here's to the Nights," a peace and friendship anthem penned by Diane Warren. The song featured contributions from artists including McCartney, Joe Walsh, Corinne Bailey Rae, Eric Burdon, Finneas, Lenny Kravitz, Jenny Lewis, Steve Lukather, Chris Stapleton, and Yola. It served as the lead single for his EP Zoom In, which was launched on 19 March 2021 through UMe.

During a March 2021 interview with Esquire, Starr revealed his intention to concentrate more on EPs rather than full-length albums. Subsequently, on 24 September 2021, he issued a follow-up EP titled Change the World.

On 7 February 2022, Starr announced plans to resume touring with his band for the first time since 2019, with dates set from 27 May to 26 June. However, several concerts scheduled for June were postponed until September and October after some band members contracted COVID-19. Later in October, Starr canceled additional shows due to illness and subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 himself, which resulted in further cancellations in Canada.

The EP EP3 was released by Starr on 16 September 2022. In January 2023, he revealed a US tour planned from May through June featuring the All-Starr Band, followed by more dates between September and October. His EP Rewind Forward came out on 13 October 2023.

In 2024, Starr initially issued the single Crooked Boy as a Record Store Day exclusive before expanding its availability digitally and physically in April and May. Despite previous remarks about no longer producing full albums, he unveiled a country and roots album called Look Up, produced by T Bone Burnett, which was released on 10 January 2025.

Influences

Starr's formative musical inspirations encompassed skiffle, blues, and rock and roll genres. He drew heavily from country performers like Hank Williams, Buck Owens, and Hank Snow as well as jazz figures such as Chico Hamilton and Yusef Lateef. These influences contributed to his signature drum fills and rhythmic grooves. Although he admired Buddy Rich's technical prowess, Starr preferred a style driven more by feel than precision. Gene Autry was his earliest musical idol, and by the mid-1960s he had developed an appreciation for Lee Dorsey. In 1964, Starr acknowledged that much of the music he valued originated within Black cultural traditions.

Drums

Starr characterized his drumming approach as straightforward offbeat rhythms complemented by distinctive fills—a style shaped in part by playing a right-handed drum kit left-handed. Beatles producer George Martin commended his reliable backbeat and consistent tempo despite limited technical virtuosity. Starr regarded drumming as laying down a solid groove with tasteful accents rather than overtly interpreting songs.

In 2011, readers of Rolling Stone ranked him as the fifth-greatest drummer of all time. Music journalist Robyn Flans highlighted his extensive influence across generations of drummers, while Steve Smith emphasized Starr's unique compositional drum parts that defined many Beatles tracks. His favorite drummer is Jim Keltner, with whom he collaborated frequently starting in the 1970s.

Known for positioning himself higher on the drum throne to better reach tom-toms and cymbals, Starr inspired drummers like Genesis's Phil Collins—who mimicked his style on the 1983 hit "That's All." Contrary to popular misconception, John Lennon never disparaged Starr’s abilities; Lennon referred to him as a "damn good drummer" whose talent was unquestionable.

Indie artist Tjinder Singh praised Starr as an innovative drummer whose influence extended into genres such as hip hop. Author Mark Lewisohn notes that recording difficulties during Beatles sessions seldom resulted from Starr’s playing. He introduced modern drumming methods including matched grip technique, lower drum tuning, and muffling of tonal rings. According to Ken Micallef and Donnie Marshall of Classic Rock Drummers, his distinctive tom sounds and cymbal work have inspired countless musicians.

In 2021, Starr expanded his impact into music education by launching a ten-part MasterClass series entitled "Drumming and Creative Collaboration."

Vocals

Ringo Starr provided lead vocals on the majority of the Beatles' studio recordings, helping to define each member's unique vocal identity. Lennon and McCartney frequently composed lyrics and melodies suited to Starr’s limited baritone range, as exemplified by songs like "Yellow Submarine" on Revolver and "With a Little Help from My Friends" from Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Due to his distinctive vocal tone, Starr seldom contributed backing vocals, though they can be heard on tracks such as "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" and "Carry That Weight". He also took the lead on his own compositions, including "Don't Pass Me By" and "Octopus's Garden", along with other songs like "I Wanna Be Your Man", "Boys", "Matchbox", "Honey Don't", "Act Naturally", "Good Night", and "What Goes On".

Songwriting

Starr’s idiosyncratic expressions, often called "Ringoisms," such as "a hard day's night" and "tomorrow never knows," served as inspiration for Beatles song titles, particularly for Lennon. McCartney described these malapropisms as both lyrical and enchanting. Starr contributed lyrical content to unfinished Lennon–McCartney compositions, including a line featured in "Eleanor Rigby".

He holds sole songwriting credit for two Beatles tracks: "Don't Pass Me By" and "Octopus's Garden," the latter with assistance from Harrison. Harrison regarded "Octopus's Garden" as a meaningful statement about inner tranquility, highlighting Starr’s cosmic approach to songwriting. Additionally, Starr co-authored songs like "What Goes On," "Flying," and "Dig It." Following the band's dissolution, he received credits for songs such as "Taking a Trip to Carolina," as well as shared credits on Beatles pieces including "12-Bar Original," "Los Paranoias," and "Free as a Bird."

In 2003, Starr acknowledged Harrison’s significant role in completing his compositions, noting that while he was adept at creating verses and choruses, he found finishing songs challenging. Harrison helped finalize hits like "It Don't Come Easy" and "Back Off Boogaloo," though he only took co-writing credit for “Photograph.” Starting with the 1973 album Ringo, Starr collaborated extensively with Vini Poncia, resulting in hits such as “Oh My My.” Their partnership accounted for more than half of the tracks on Ringo the 4th, with only two additional songs released on Bad Boy in 1978.

Personal life

In 1962, Starr met Maureen Cox, a hairdresser aged 16, whom he married at Caxton Hall on 11 February 1965. Beatles members George Harrison and John Lennon served as witnesses, while manager Brian Epstein acted as best man. The couple had three sons: Zak Starkey (born 1965), Jason (born 1967), and Lee (born 1970). In 1971, Starr acquired John Lennon's residence, Tittenhurst Park, located in Berkshire for his family’s use. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1975 amid issues involving Starr’s infidelity, alcoholism, and erratic conduct. Cox passed away from leukaemia in 1994.

Zak Starkey pursued a professional drumming career and has performed with The Who as well as participating in Starr’s All-Starr Band tours. He became a father in 1985, giving Starr his first grandchild. To date, Starr has eight grandchildren and became the first Beatle great-grandfather in 2016.

Starr met actress Barbara Bach during the filming of Caveman in 1980; they wed at Marylebone Town Hall in 1981. The couple divides their time between residences in Surrey, Los Angeles, and Monte Carlo. In the Sunday Times Rich List 2011, Starr was ranked number 56 with an estimated fortune of £150 million and was recognized as the wealthiest drummer worldwide in 2012. In 2014, he placed his expansive 200-acre Surrey estate at Rydinghurst on the market but maintained ownership of a property in Chelsea, London.

In December 2015, Starr and Bach auctioned off personal memorabilia through Julien's Auctions, generating over $9 million; part of the proceeds supported their Lotus Foundation charity. The auction featured items such as Starr’s original Ludwig drum kit, instruments belonging to Harrison, Lennon, Marc Bolan, and a first-pressing Beatles White Album numbered “0000001.”

Starr publicly supported the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union (Brexit), expressing confidence about regaining national sovereignty.

In October 2021, his name appeared in the Pandora Papers, which revealed alleged use of offshore tax havens by celebrities to minimize tax liabilities.

A vegetarian by choice with allergies to garlic and onions, Starr practices daily meditation and advocates “peace and love” as guiding principles throughout his life.

Awards and honours

In the 1965 Birthday Honours, Starr and the Beatles were named Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), receiving their decorations from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. Their collective performance in the 1964 film A Hard Day's Night earned them a joint nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Newcomer. The Beatles secured an Academy Award in 1971 for Best Original Song Score with Let It Be. The minor planet 4150 Starr, discovered in 1984, was designated in his recognition. Additionally, Starr received a nomination for a 1989 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Performer in a Children's Series for his work on Shining Time Station.

In 2015, Starr became the final Beatle to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame based on his solo achievements, honored under the "Musical Excellence" category. At the 50th Grammy Awards, Starr, along with George Martin and Giles Martin, accepted the award for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Love. He represented the Beatles when accepting a Diamond Award at the 2008 World Music Awards and was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2010, positioned near those of Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison.

Starr was knighted as a Knight Bachelor in the 2018 New Year Honours for his contributions to music, with Prince William conferring the honor at Buckingham Palace. In 2022, Berklee College of Music bestowed upon him an honorary Doctor of Music degree in recognition of his profound influence on music, film, television, and popular culture.

Film career

Starr received commendations from industry figures; producer Walter Shenson described him as "an exceptional actor and a complete natural." By the mid-1960s, he had developed into a film enthusiast. His prominent appearances include A Hard Day's Night (1964), Help! (1965), Magical Mystery Tour (1967), and Let It Be (1970). His filmography also features titles such as Candy (1968), The Magic Christian (1969), Blindman (1971), Son of Dracula (1974), and Caveman (1981). In 1971, he took a role in Frank Zappa's 200 Motels and lent his voice to Harry Nilsson's animated feature The Point!. Starr co-starred in That'll Be the Day (1973) and appeared in Martin Scorsese's documentary The Last Waltz, which chronicles the Band’s farewell concert in 1976.

He portrayed the Pope in Ken Russell's Lisztomania (1975) and played a fictionalized version of himself in McCartney's film Give My Regards to Broad Street (1984). In the 1978 television comedy film Ringo, inspired by The Prince and the Pauper, Starr appeared both as himself and as his alter ego Ognir Rrats. He also participated in interview segments alongside drummer Keith Moon for the 1979 documentary about The Who titled The Kids Are Alright.

Discography

Following The Beatles’ dissolution, Starr has produced 21 solo studio albums, reflecting consistent artistic output and enduring presence in the music industry:

Sentimental Journey (1970)
Beaucoups of Blues (1970)
Ringo (1973)
Goodnight Vienna (1974)
Ringo's Rotogravure (1976)
Ringo the 4th (1977)
Bad Boy (1978)
Stop and Smell the Roses (1981)
Old Wave (1983)
Time Takes Time (1992)
Vertical Man (1998)
I Wanna Be Santa Claus (1999)
Ringo Rama (2003)
Choose Love (2005)
Liverpool 8 (2008)
Y Not (2010)
Ringo 2012 (2012)
Postcards from Paradise (2015)
Give More Love (2017)
What's My Name (2019)
Look Up (2025)

Bibliography

External links

Starr and His All-Starr Band (archived official site)
Ringo Starr’s profile on Drummerworld
Ringo Starr Artwork (archived)

↑ Clayson 2005, p. 119
↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
↑ Gould 2007, p. 252

[1] Clayson 2005, p. 119

[2] Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).

[3] Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).

[4] Gould 2007, p. 252

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]