Ringo Starr: Forever 24 at 85—Touring, Country Roots & Beatles Legacy

Have you ever met someone who never seems to age? For Beatles legend Ringo Starr, that mantra isn’t just metaphor—it’s literal. In a recent interview with The New York Times, the 85-year-old music icon said, “It blows me away. I look in the mirror and I’m 24. I never get older than 24.” His secret? A lifetime of touring, spontaneous creativity, and the sheer joy of drumming.

Since 1989, Ringo has toured consistently with his revolving All-Starr Band, keeping his energy high and spirit young. His newest project, a country album titled Look Up, shows he’s still experimenting, still evolving—with collaborators like Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, and Lucius joining the fun. On top of that, Starr has taken an active role in shaping the upcoming Sam Mendes-directed Beatles biopic, making sure his and the band’s story is told right.

This definitive article explores how Ringo Starr became one of the most beloved and enduring figures in music—from his humble Liverpool beginnings to rock royalty and his never-ending pursuit of peace, love, and a perfectly timed backbeat.

Early Life & Rise in Liverpool

Born Richard Starkey on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool’s Dingle neighborhood, Ringo endured a difficult early childhood. A ruptured appendix at age 6 left him hospitalized for nearly a year, followed by time in a sanatorium due to tuberculosis. His health challenges isolated him but also introduced him to radio, records, and rhythm.

In his teens, Ringo became immersed in Liverpool’s skiffle scene. By the late 1950s, he was drumming with Rory Storm & the Hurricanes, one of the city’s top live acts. Their energetic sets and tours in Hamburg laid the foundation for what would come next. Ringo’s understated, groove-oriented playing stood out in a time when flashiness ruled the stage.

Joining The Beatles

In August 1962, Ringo replaced Pete Best as the drummer for The Beatles, solidifying the classic lineup of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. At the time, the decision sparked protests from fans loyal to Best—but the chemistry was undeniable. Ringo’s steady rhythm and relaxed personality were the perfect match.

He contributed iconic drum parts to tracks like “Come Together,” “Rain,” and “A Day in the Life”, and took lead vocals on fan favourite’s like “Yellow Submarine” and “With a Little Help from My Friends.” He also wrote the country-tinged “Don’t Pass Me By,” foreshadowing his solo country ventures.

Solo Stardom & The All-Starr Band

After The Beatles split in 1970, Ringo launched a solo career with hits like “It Don’t Come Easy”, “Photograph”, and “Back Off Boogaloo.” He also recorded his first country album, Beaucoups of Blues, in Nashville—a nod to his lifelong love of the genre.

In 1989, Ringo formed the All-Starr Band, a supergroup with rotating members from legendary acts like Toto, The Eagles, and Men at Work. The band has toured almost every year since, offering fans a mix of Beatles hits and rock classics.

Rather than centre himself, Ringo shared the stage, giving each musician a moment to shine. That collaborative spirit has kept the All-Starr Band fresh, joyful, and enduring.

Look Up: A New Country Chapter

Ringo’s 2025 album Look Up marks a return to his country roots. Produced by T Bone Burnett, the album blends heartfelt Americana with Ringo’s signature warmth. The guest list is impressive: Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, Lucius, Larkin Poe, and even Alison Krauss lend their talents to various tracks.

Recorded in part in Nashville and Los Angeles, Look Up delivers a blend of bluegrass and modern country-pop. Songs like “Can You Hear Me Call” and “Never Let Me Go” highlight Ringo’s mellow storytelling and showcase his collaborators’ virtuosic flair.

Critics have praised the album’s sincerity and musicality, with Pitchfork calling it “a graceful, late-career gem.” Fans on Reddit and social media echoed the sentiment, celebrating Ringo’s continued creative spark.

Youthful Spirit at 85

The internet lit up when Ringo told The New York Times, “I never get older than 24.” But behind the quote is a deeper truth: music keeps him young.

Performing live, according to Ringo, is like hitting a reset button. “It’s not easy these days,” he admitted, “but playing keeps me going.” After every tour, he thinks about stopping—but his family talks him out of it. “You’ve said that for the last 10 years,” his kids remind him.

Ringo’s passion for the present moment—living “in the now”—fuels his vitality. Meditation, vegetarianism, and daily drumming keep his energy up. Unlike many of his peers, who have slowed down or retired, Ringo keeps marching forward, with a beat that never fades.

Insight on the Beatles Biopic

Scheduled for release in 2028, Sam Mendes’ Beatles biopic will be told in four parts—one for each member of the Fab Four. Actors Barry Keoghan, Paul Mescal, Joseph Quinn, and Harris Dickinson will portray Ringo, Paul, George, and John respectively.

Ringo spent two days in New York with Mendes, reviewing the script for his segment. Some scenes, particularly those about his first wife Maureen, didn’t sit right with him. “We would never do that,” he said, prompting Mendes and the writing team to revise the script.

While Ringo acknowledged the script was well written, he emphasized the importance of getting the details right—especially their upbringing in Liverpool. After the edits, he expressed his full support for the project.

Legacy, Friendship & Awards

Ringo’s contributions have been widely recognized. He’s a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee—once with The Beatles and once as a solo artist. In 2018, he was knighted by Prince William, joining Paul McCartney as a Beatle with royal honors.

His friendship with Paul endures. The two remain close, collaborating and even performing live together. Their bond stands as a powerful reminder of the Beatles’ enduring legacy—and the human connection behind the legend.

Ringo is also an inspiration for musicians around the world. Drummers from Phil Collins to Dave Grohl cite him as a major influence. As Grohl once said, “Ringo is the king of feel.”

Personal Life & Off-Stage Passions

Beyond the stage, Ringo leads a rich personal life. He married actress Barbara Bach in 1981, and together they’ve supported each other through recovery, philanthropy, and decades of love. Ringo is also a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

His spiritual side shines through in his famous mantra: “Peace and love.” Every year on his birthday, he invites fans around the world to say those words at noon. He’s also a photographer, author, and philanthropist, with proceeds from his books and art going to the Lotus Foundation, which supports causes from cancer research to homelessness.

What Makes Ringo Unique

Ringo Starr revolutionized drumming not by showing off—but by playing what the song needed. His fills were tasteful, his timing impeccable, and his sound unmistakable. From the snare roll in “A Day in the Life” to the tom pattern in “Come Together,” his drumming served the music.

He’s also one of the most relatable rock stars of all time. No ego. No pretence. Just humour, warmth, and a deep commitment to his art and fans. He didn’t chase the spotlight—it found him.

FAQs

How old is Ringo Starr?

He was born July 7, 1940—turning 85 in 2025.

What is the All-Starr Band?

A touring supergroup led by Ringo since 1989, featuring rotating famous musicians.

Did Ringo really help change the Beatles biopic?

Yes—he reviewed the script with Sam Mendes and asked for major changes to ensure authenticity.

What’s Look Up about?

It’s Ringo’s newest country album, blending heartfelt songwriting with Americana stars.

Is he still performing?

Yes—he tours regularly and has no plans to stop.

Key Takeaways

• Ringo Starr still feels 24 at age 85, driven by passion for performance.
• His All-Starr Band tours have kept him active since 1989.
• He just released a country album, Look Up, with artists like Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle.
• Ringo helped rewrite the Beatles biopic script to ensure its accuracy.
• He remains a beacon of peace, creativity, and humility in the music world.

Conclusion

Ringo Starr’s rhythm hasn’t missed a beat in over six decades. From Liverpool’s working-class streets to the world’s biggest stages, his journey has been one of persistence, reinvention, and good vibes. At 85, he’s still creating, still performing, and still radiating that joyful energy that made him beloved in the first place.

As the world awaits the Beatles biopic and plays Look Up on repeat, one thing is clear: Ringo Starr is not slowing down. He’s aging backwards—with humor, humility, and a drumbeat that keeps the world turning.

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