In a recent interview, Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, celebrated his 85th birthday while reflecting on his life, career, and the enduring message of peace and love that he advocates.

Known for his upbeat personality and infectious spirit, Starr shared insights into his early days in Liverpool, the evolution of his music, and the importance of mindfulness through meditation.

As he marks this significant milestone, Starr continues to inspire fans both old and new with his timeless message.

 

Ringo Starr, born Richard Starkey in Liverpool, reminisced about his childhood in the city, recalling the joy and challenges he faced growing up.

“You never forget that,” he said, expressing how his early experiences shaped him.

He fondly recalled walking through parks with friends, creating footprints in the snow, and skipping school to enjoy life.

These nostalgic memories highlight the simplicity and innocence of his youth, contrasting sharply with the fame and fortune that would follow.

 

Starr’s journey into music began with a simple gift from his stepfather: an old drum kit.

Despite initially wanting new drums, he learned to appreciate the instrument that would become his lifelong passion.

His determination to pursue music led him to take on factory work to pay back his grandfather for the loan he needed to buy a new kit.

“I was on a payment plan,” he joked, reflecting on his youthful ambition and dedication.

 

As Starr celebrates his 85th birthday, he acknowledges the tendency for people to become introspective during such milestones.

However, he approaches aging with a light-hearted attitude.

“I don’t really like to read my age,” he remarked, emphasizing that he feels youthful at heart.

“I’m 24 in here,” he quipped, demonstrating his refusal to let age define him.

For Starr, life is about the experiences and the joy it brings, rather than dwelling on the past or future.

 

In keeping with his optimistic outlook, Starr hosts an annual “Peace and Love” birthday event, encouraging people worldwide to pause and reflect at noon on July 7th.

This tradition, which began in 2008, serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and compassion.

“You don’t even need to say it; you can just think it,” he explained, illustrating how simple acts of mindfulness can contribute to a more peaceful world.

 

Starr’s message of peace and love has been a cornerstone of his identity, and he believes it is more relevant now than ever.

In light of global tensions and conflicts, he emphasizes the need for kindness and understanding among people.

“The world is going through madness,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges we face today.

His commitment to this message is evident, as he continues to advocate for harmony and goodwill through his music and public appearances.

 

Reflecting on the origins of his peace and love philosophy, Starr traced it back to the influence of the San Francisco hippie movement and his transformative trip to India in 1968.

There, he was introduced to transcendental meditation, a practice he still incorporates into his daily routine.

“I did this morning,” he said, highlighting the importance of mindfulness in maintaining balance and peace in his life.

 

Starr also took time to reflect on The Beatles’ evolution during their brief but impactful career.

The band’s journey from their early days in Liverpool to becoming global icons was marked by significant personal and musical growth.

“We were lads, and we were changing,” he noted, recognizing how the cultural shifts of the 1960s influenced their music.

The experimentation with different styles, including the use of drugs, played a role in their creative process, but Starr emphasized that they never lost sight of their authenticity.

 

He fondly recalled the camaraderie and creativity shared among the band members.

“A lot of the great moments in my life were in that studio with those three boys, my brothers,” he said, reflecting on the unique bond they shared.

Despite their differences, the collaborative spirit and mutual support fostered an environment where innovation thrived.

As the music industry continues to evolve, Starr has embraced new technologies, including streaming services and remixed versions of classic songs.

He expressed his appreciation for the remastering process, particularly how it enhances the clarity of the drums in their recordings.

“The drums sound great,” he remarked, indicating his ongoing passion for music and the craft of drumming.

 

Starr’s recent Grammy win for the song “Now and Then,” a long-awaited collaboration with Paul McCartney, showcases the enduring legacy of The Beatles.

The journey of bringing this track to life, from its initial demo in 1977 to its completion decades later, reflects the band’s lasting impact on the music industry.

 

Despite his age, Starr remains an active performer, gearing up for a series of concerts with his All-Starr Band.

He enjoys the energy of live performances and the connection he shares with fans of all ages.

“My audience understands that I love them, and I know they love me,” he said, emphasizing the joy that music brings to both him and his listeners.

Starr’s approach to performing is rooted in authenticity and spontaneity.

He acknowledges that while he may not always remember every detail of his playing, he relies on instinct and emotion to guide him.

“It’s like I’m in a blackout,” he explained, capturing the essence of being fully present in the moment.

 

In addition to his music career, Starr has a passion for photography, which he has shared with fans through various books.

His latest publication, “Beats and Threads,” showcases his drumming kits and memorabilia, highlighting his journey as a musician.

Starr’s love for capturing moments is evident in his storytelling, as he reminisces about the early days of The Beatles and the memories he has documented through photographs.

 

As he continues to engage with fans through social media, Starr remains aware of the mixed reactions that can arise from online interactions.

While he appreciates the positive messages from fans, he acknowledges the occasional negativity that comes with public life.

“I’m not into it,” he said of social media, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the love and support he receives.

 

As Ringo Starr turns 85, he embodies the spirit of resilience, creativity, and optimism.

His reflections on life, music, and the enduring message of peace and love resonate deeply in today’s world.

With a career that has spanned decades, Starr continues to inspire generations, reminding us all of the power of music, mindfulness, and connection.

As he prepares for another year of celebrations and performances, fans eagerly anticipate the joy and positivity he brings to the stage and beyond.

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