A Legendary Chat: Reflecting with Ringo Starr on his 83rd Birthday

A conversation with Ringo Starr on his 83rd birthday

By Ken Sharp

On his 83rd birthday, Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, sat down with me to reflect on his career, anniversaries, and cherished moments. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of his iconic album “Ringo,” Ringo shares his indelible memories of making the record and the musical journey that led him to become one of the most beloved rock musicians in the world.

Memories of making “Ringo”

Ringo recalls with fondness the making of the “Ringo” album, an album that truly epitomizes his musical style and features contributions from his fellow Beatles, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison. Originally planned to be recorded in New Orleans, the album found its production home in Los Angeles, thanks to Ringo’s producer Richard Perry.

In many ways, the “Ringo” album serves as a prelude to Ringo’s subsequent All-Starr bands, as it brought together a group of his closest friends who played on the album. Ringo’s experiences creating this album laid the groundwork for the collaborations and camaraderie that would become a trademark of his later musical endeavors.

Musical idols and the path less taken

When asked about his musical idols, Ringo candidly reveals that Lightnin’ Hopkins, a blues musician from Houston, Texas, was his major inspiration. At a young age, Ringo was enamored with the blues and even contemplated moving to Houston to immerse himself in this music scene. However, life took him on a different path, and he found himself becoming one of the most influential drummers in rock history.

This anecdote showcases the unpredictable nature of life and the serendipitous journeys we embark upon. It also speaks to the power of musical inspiration and how it can shape our ambitions and dreams.

Drumming as a passion

Ringo’s love for the drums is evident throughout his career, and he emphasizes that drumming has always been his primary focus. When asked about what makes a great drum part, Ringo explains that the fills, those spontaneous moments of musical expression, are where the artistry of the drummer shines through.

“I can’t think about it,” he states. “I have no idea what I’m going to do, it just happens.” This spontaneity is at the heart of Ringo’s drumming style and adds an element of surprise and excitement to his performances.

Choosing drums over other instruments

Ringo’s affinity for drums as his chosen instrument is a decision that stemmed from a deep personal connection. Despite having access to pianos, banjos, and mandolins in his family, Ringo was singularly drawn to the drums from a young age. He describes how, at 13, his desire to play drums eclipsed any interest in other musical instruments that were available to him.

This decision highlights the importance of following one’s passions and staying true to one’s musical calling. Ringo’s dedication to mastering the drums ultimately led him to become an iconic figure in the world of music.

Meeting Elvis and revisiting memories

The Beatles’ encounter with Elvis Presley is the stuff of legend, and Ringo shares his memories of the first time he met “The King.” Contrary to popular belief, the meeting did not involve a jam session or a game of American football, but rather a moment of awe and admiration.

Elvis’s unique aura and magnetic presence left a lasting impression on Ringo, who describes him as the first musician who didn’t resemble someone he knew personally. Meeting Elvis was a monumental experience for Ringo and his bandmates, one that solidified their status as fans and showcased the impact that Elvis had on their lives.

The subsequent meetings with Elvis, including a memorable trip to Las Vegas, further added to the mystique surrounding their encounters. Ringo recalls feeling both excited and apprehensive about playing in the same venue as Elvis, recognizing the weight and significance of performing in such an iconic space.

The Beatles Anthology and the joy of playing together

In recent years, fans were treated to new footage of Ringo, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison playing together during the making of the Beatles Anthology project. These moments, captured on film, showcase the enduring camaraderie and musical chemistry that defined The Beatles.

Ringo reflects on the joy of jamming with Paul and George, describing it as a simple coming together of three musicians who know how to play. The footage captures their playful spirit and showcases their shared musical bond as they perform old rock and roll favorites like “Ain’t She Sweet” and “Blue Moon of Kentucky.”

The Beatles’ musical legacy

When asked about the Beatles’ musical legacy, Ringo expresses his pride in the music they created, highlighting the fact that their songs continue to be cherished and played worldwide. Despite the ups and downs they experienced as a band, the focus was always on being serious musicians rather than seeking fame.

Ringo’s heartfelt words remind us that the true impact of The Beatles lies in their music. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion for their craft continue to resonate with audiences today. The Beatles’ music transcends time, and Ringo’s appreciation for this enduring legacy is palpable.

A final reflection

As Ringo celebrates his 83rd birthday, it serves as a reminder of the incredible journey he has undertaken and the mark he has left on the world of music. From his early days dreaming of being a drummer to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in rock history, Ringo’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and unwavering passion.

It is through interviews like these that we gain valuable insights into the lives and minds of our musical icons. Ringo Starr’s words remind us of the power of music to shape our lives and the importance of cherishing the moments and anniversaries that define our musical journeys.