“Peace and Love Forever”: The World Celebrates Ringo Starr at 85
Today, the world comes together to celebrate a legend. Sir Ringo Starr — drummer of The Beatles, solo artist, actor, peace ambassador, and beloved cultural icon — turns 85. And in typical Ringo fashion, he’s doing it with a smile, a drumbeat, and his signature message of “Peace and Love” echoing louder than ever.
It’s hard to believe that Richard Starkey, the working-class lad from Liverpool who once battled illness and poverty, would go on to become one of the most recognizable and influential drummers in music history. But Ringo’s story has always been one of resilience, rhythm, and radiant optimism. And at 85, he’s still showing the world how to live with heart, humor, and harmony.
From Liverpool to the World Stage
Born on July 7, 1940, in the Dingle neighborhood of Liverpool, Ringo Starr didn’t have an easy start. Frequent hospitalizations during childhood kept him out of school and away from traditional studies — but perhaps they also led him toward a different kind of rhythm: one that would eventually set the beat for a generation.
When he joined The Beatles in 1962, replacing drummer Pete Best, the chemistry between the Fab Four ignited instantly. John, Paul, George, and Ringo weren’t just a band — they were a cultural revolution. While Ringo may have often stood quietly behind his drum kit, his rock-solid timing, unique drumming style, and warm personality quickly won over fans around the globe. Songs like “Yellow Submarine,” “With a Little Help from My Friends,” and “Octopus’s Garden” showcased not only his musical chops but also his charm, humility, and quirky humor.
More Than Just a Beatle
After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Ringo defied expectations. While some doubted he would find success as a solo artist, he quickly silenced the critics with hits like Photograph, It Don’t Come Easy, and You’re Sixteen. His solo career didn’t just survive — it thrived. He collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including his former bandmates, and launched his All-Starr Band in 1989 — a supergroup that has toured the world for decades, celebrating music across generations and genres.
As the years passed, Ringo’s identity as a musician expanded into something more powerful — a symbol of joy, unity, and peace. Whether it’s flashing his peace-sign fingers at every appearance or closing his shows with a heartfelt “I love you,” Ringo’s message has never changed: love is all you need, and kindness is the way forward.
Celebrating 85 with Style
As he marks his 85th birthday, tributes are pouring in from fans, fellow musicians, and global figures alike. Paul McCartney, his lifelong bandmate and brother-in-beat, shared a heartfelt post: “Happy Birthday to my pal Ringo. We’ve been through it all, and I wouldn’t change a thing. You’ve kept the beat of our lives going strong. Peace and love always.”
From Elton John to Dave Grohl, from Billie Eilish to Tom Hanks — celebrities across generations have taken to social media to thank Ringo for the rhythm he brought into their lives. Cities from Liverpool to Los Angeles have lit up buildings in his honor, and fans everywhere are flooding the internet with memories, rare photos, and messages of gratitude.
Ringo’s official birthday celebration this year — a virtual global “Peace and Love” moment — has seen people from every continent raising two fingers at noon to honor his call for harmony. It’s a tradition that began in 2008 and has grown into a worldwide event, proving that Ringo’s vision goes far beyond drums and records — it touches the very heart of humanity.
A Legacy of Light
What makes Ringo Starr so beloved isn’t just the fact that he was a Beatle. It’s that he never stopped evolving — never stopped giving, loving, and laughing. At an age when most would have long retired, Ringo continues to record music, tour with energy, and inspire younger artists.
He’s remained grounded, humorous, and full of life. Whether he’s cracking jokes in interviews or releasing new music with his All-Starr Band, there’s a youthfulness in Ringo that seems eternal. He doesn’t try to pretend the past didn’t exist — he honors it — but he also keeps looking ahead, proving that life doesn’t stop at 70, 75, or even 85.
And through all the noise of fame, Ringo has always returned to the same refrain: Peace and love. He doesn’t just say it. He lives it. It’s stitched into the fabric of who he is.
The Beat Goes On
As we celebrate Ringo Starr’s 85th birthday, we’re not just honoring a musician. We’re honoring a man who helped shape the soul of the 20th century and is still sending waves of love into the 21st. His impact isn’t measured solely in records sold or concerts played — it’s measured in smiles, in outstretched hands, in the quiet comfort of knowing that somewhere in the world, a man with a drumstick and a grin is still preaching peace.
So here’s to you, Ringo.
Thank you for the music. Thank you for the laughter. Thank you for reminding us — year after year — that peace and love truly can change the world.
Happy 85th Birthday, Ringo Starr. The beat goes on — and we’re all still dancing to it. 🥁✌️💛
