Ringo Starr: The Beatle Who Became A Solo Legend

Ringo Starr found international fame when he officially joined The Beatles in 1962. The British rock group sold over 600 million albums worldwide and over 1.6 billion singles in the U.S. alone. The Liverpool-born drummer has gone on to have a successful solo career and has remained an icon of music and style to his adoring fans.

Initially brought on to replace Pete Best by the group’s manager, Brian Epstein, Ringo quickly became a household name. As the band's popularity soared with their second single, “Please Please Me,” he not only showcased his drumming skills but also proved to be a remarkable vocalist and songwriter. His tenure with The Beatles was marked by record-breaking achievements and an overwhelming fan frenzy that defined a decade.

Reflecting on their journey, Ringo once shared, “As an act, which we were, the Palladium or the Ed Sullivan Show, because they were definite moves in a career.” He expressed that their objective was to become the biggest band in the world, and they undeniably achieved that goal. The Beatles transformed the music landscape and left a lasting legacy that continues to influence artists today.

Biography

Career Highlights

In 1966, The Beatles released the iconic song “Yellow Submarine,” featuring Ringo on lead vocals. This hit solidified their standing as the leading band during the Beatlemania era. Following the band’s breakup in 1970, Ringo Starr launched a successful solo career, releasing his debut album, Sentimental Journey, among many others.

In 2015, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, with support from his former bandmate, Paul McCartney. Their enduring friendship has been a testament to their bond, with Paul even contributing to Ringo's 2019 album, What’s My Name. Celebrating his 80th birthday in 2020, Ringo reflected on his incredible journey and numerous achievements in the music industry.

“I’m here, the road I’ve taken was made up of good choices and there were some other choices ... And we’re in a great business because we don’t have to retire,” he told the Jakarta Post. With a spirit full of enthusiasm, Ringo aims to continue his musical journey well beyond 80!

Scroll to see Ringo’s incredible transformation from his days with The Beatles to now.