Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, recently shared the fascinating story behind his distinctive stage name during a special Town Hall event on SiriusXM’s The Beatles Channel. At 84 years old, Starr reflected on how his name set him apart from his bandmates and the evolution of his identity as a musician. He also reminisced about early moments with Paul McCartney, John Lennon, and George Harrison, highlighting both the challenges and joys of their musical journey together.
The Origin of an Unforgettable Name
Starr explained how his stage name came to be during the early days of his music career. Born Richard Starkey, he began playing in bands while working at a factory. Eventually, he left the factory to pursue music full-time. As part of this transition, he and his bandmates decided to adopt new names. Starr's love for wearing rings in Liverpool led people to affectionately call him "Rings," which eventually evolved into "Ringo." Initially, the name felt unusual compared to his bandmates' more conventional names, but it ultimately became an integral part of his identity.
During the Town Hall event, Starr elaborated on the origins of his name. He described his early career when he was still working during the day and performing at night. After joining Rory Storm's band, he made the leap to become a full-time musician at the age of 20. This change marked a significant turning point in his life. Starr mentioned that everyone in the band changed their names, except for Storm, who had already done so. For Starr, his fondness for rings in Liverpool led to the nickname "Rings," which gradually transformed into "Ringo." He initially considered using "Ringo Starkey," but found it lacked the right vibe. Thus, "Ringo Starr" was born, a name that has endured for decades.
From Humble Beginnings to Legendary Status
Beyond the story of his name, Starr also discussed the early challenges of writing music with his bandmates. He admitted that in the beginning, he struggled to create original compositions and often rewrote existing songs. This approach amused his bandmates, who would laugh at his efforts. Despite these initial hurdles, Starr persevered and became an integral part of one of the most influential bands in history.
Starr also touched on a memorable reunion with Paul McCartney in December 2024 at London’s O2 Arena. It was their first performance together in five years. McCartney introduced Starr to the audience with enthusiasm, asking if they should "rock" together. This moment underscored the enduring bond between the two musicians and highlighted the timeless appeal of The Beatles' legacy. Starr's reflections on his career and his unique name provide a glimpse into the personal and professional growth that shaped one of rock's most iconic figures.