Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer and one of the two surviving members of The Beatles, has always had a deep appreciation for the experience of performing live, especially when sharing the stage with his long-time friend and former bandmate, Paul McCartney. Over the years, Starr has expressed his joy and excitement whenever he gets the chance to reunite with McCartney, citing their bond as something truly special. Their shared history as members of the world’s most influential band continues to bring both personal and musical fulfilment to Starr, making their performances together not only nostalgic for fans but meaningful for the musicians themselves.
Whenever Starr and McCartney come together, whether at major events or more intimate performances, it rekindles the magic of The Beatles for both the artists and their audiences. Having spent the formative years of their careers together, creating timeless music and revolutionising popular culture, Starr and McCartney’s shared history creates a unique dynamic on stage. The energy between them is palpable, and for Starr, the opportunity to play alongside McCartney brings back memories of their groundbreaking days as part of the Fab Four.
In interviews, Starr often speaks fondly about McCartney, reflecting on their enduring friendship that has lasted well beyond The Beatles’ breakup in 1970. Despite their separate musical paths, they have remained close over the decades, collaborating on various projects and occasionally reuniting on stage. Starr has been open about how performing with McCartney feels both familiar and exhilarating, noting that McCartney’s energy and passion for music haven’t waned with time.
One notable instance of this was in 2019, when Starr joined McCartney on stage at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles during McCartney’s “Freshen Up” tour. The crowd erupted in cheers as the two icons performed “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and “Helter Skelter.” Starr, clearly enjoying the moment, expressed his excitement after the show, saying that playing with McCartney was always a thrill. For Starr, these moments are reminders of the unbreakable bond they share through music, a connection that transcends the years since The Beatles’ dissolution.
Starr has also emphasised the joy he feels from the simplicity of playing the drums alongside McCartney, harking back to the natural chemistry that defined The Beatles’ rhythm section. The music, rooted in decades of collaboration, flows effortlessly between them, and the mutual respect they have for one another amplifies their performances. Starr has often remarked that he doesn’t take these moments for granted, acknowledging that reuniting on stage with McCartney is something truly rare and special for both of them.
For Starr, performing with McCartney isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about the pure joy of making music with someone he deeply admires and respects. It’s clear that for Ringo Starr, every chance to take the stage with Paul McCartney is a cherished experience, filled with memories, emotion, and a shared love for the music that shaped their lives and the lives of millions.
