Ringo Starr’s 85th Birthday Celebration — A Star-Studded Night of Peace and Love in Beverly Hills
In a jubilant and heartfelt celebration filled with laughter, music, and emotional tributes, Sir Ringo Starr rang in his 85th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and fellow legends at his traditional “Peace and Love” event in Beverly Hills. The annual celebration, which has become a global tradition for Beatles fans, took on special meaning this year as it marked not only a milestone age for the beloved drummer but also a powerful reminder of his enduring impact on music and the message of unity he’s carried for decades.
A Crowd of Legends and Loved Ones
The garden of the Beverly Hills Hotel buzzed with excitement as a dazzling array of musicians, actors, and longtime friends arrived to pay tribute. Among the first to arrive was Paul McCartney, who embraced his former bandmate with a warm smile and signature wit. “He just keeps getting younger,” McCartney joked. The crowd erupted into cheers as the two hugged, their decades-long friendship still as strong and genuine as ever.
Also spotted in attendance were Joe Walsh, Ringo’s brother-in-law and longtime All-Starr Band collaborator, along with Sheryl Crow, Dave Grohl, Elton John, and Olivia Harrison, widow of George Harrison. Even Dhani Harrison, George’s son, performed an acoustic rendition of “Photograph,” a 1973 hit co-written by Ringo and George.
The Message: “Peace and Love” — Still Loud and Clear
At exactly 12 noon, as tradition dictates, Ringo stood at the podium in his trademark sunglasses and flashed his signature peace sign. With fans cheering from as far away as Liverpool, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, and Lagos via live stream, he led the crowd in a global chant:
“Peace and love, peace and love!”
In a brief but moving speech, Ringo said:“Eighty-five years and I’m still rockin’, still drumming, and still spreading peace and love. That’s all I ever wanted to do. Thank you to everyone around the world who keeps this going. I feel your love.”
A Night of Music, Memories, and Magic
As the sun set, the hotel’s garden transformed into a mini concert arena. Members of the All-Starr Band reunited for a rare performance, playing some of Ringo’s solo classics like “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Back Off Boogaloo,” and “I’m the Greatest,” along with a few Beatles favorites, including a soulful “With a Little Help from My Friends.”
The emotional highlight came when Paul McCartney took the stage with an acoustic guitar and sang a stripped-down version of “Yellow Submarine,” leading the entire crowd in a sing-along that left many in tears. It was a nostalgic moment that echoed the simple joy and enduring legacy of their shared journey.
A Life of Rhythm, Laughter, and Legacy
Born Richard Starkey in Liverpool on July 7, 1940, Ringo Starr rose from working-class roots to global fame as the drummer of the most iconic band in music history. Beyond The Beatles, Ringo carved out a vibrant solo career and has remained one of the industry’s most beloved figures for his humor, humility, and advocacy for peace.
Over the years, his birthday has become more than a party — it’s a global call for unity. Cities around the world held satellite events, including drum circles in London’s Abbey Road, fan gatherings in Tokyo, and mural unveilings in São Paulo.
Even the International Space Station got involved, with astronauts broadcasting a “peace and love” message from orbit, accompanied by a floating Beatles record.
Reflections and the Road Ahead
As the night drew to a close, Ringo reflected on his journey, his family—including wife Barbara Bach—and his fans. “I feel blessed,” he said. “Not just for the music, but for the love. You’ve all given me a beautiful life.”
Fans left the event with commemorative “Peace & Love 85” wristbands and posters, many vowing to carry Ringo’s message forward for another generation.
From Liverpool to Beverly Hills, from Beatlemania to modern-day inspiration, Ringo Starr’s 85th birthday was more than a celebration of age—it was a celebration of a life lived with joy, rhythm, and an unwavering call for peace and love.
