Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer for the Beatles, is celebrating his 85th birthday today, July 8, 2025. Born Richard Starkey on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England, Ringo Starr is a living legend of peace, love, and timeless rhythm. With a career spanning over six decades, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Ringo Starr’s early life was marked by health challenges, including appendicitis and tuberculosis, which led to spending nearly a year in the hospital and two years in a sanatorium. However, it was during his hospital stay that he first developed an interest in drumming, using a cotton bobbin to tap furniture. This early fascination eventually led him to form his first band, the Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group, in 1957, and later join Rory Storm and the Hurricanes in 1959.
Ringo Starr officially joined the Beatles in August 1962, replacing Pete Best, and went on to become an integral part of the band’s success. He sang lead vocals on several Beatles songs, including “Yellow Submarine” and “With a Little Help from My Friends.” After the Beatles disbanded in 1970, Ringo Starr pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums, including “Sentimental Journey” and “Ringo.” His single “Photograph” reached number one in the US in 1973.
Ringo Starr’s impact on music extends beyond his work with the Beatles. He has been a pioneer for peace and love, using his platform to promote positivity and kindness. His music has inspired generations of fans, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today. As the longest-living member of the Beatles, Ringo Starr remains a beloved figure in the music industry.
In recent years, Ringo Starr has continued to tour and release new music. His 2020 charity single “Here’s to the Nights” showcased his enduring talent and commitment to giving back. He has also been working on new projects, including his album “Look Up” released in 2025. Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band has toured with various lineups, featuring a mix of veteran musicians and new talent.
As Ringo Starr celebrates his 85th birthday, fans around the world are honoring his contributions to music and peace. With a career spanning over 60 years, Ringo Starr remains a symbol of peace, love, and timeless rhythm. His birthstone is the ruby, and his birth flower is the water lily, symbolizing joy, fickleness, sweetness, and magic. Here’s to many more years of music and inspiration from this legendary drummer.
