Ringo Starr, the legendary English musician, actor, and songwriter, has an impressive net worth of $350 million. He is best known as the drummer for The Beatles, a band that revolutionized music and earned him worldwide recognition. Though he was often in the background compared to the songwriting prowess of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Starr’s unique drumming style played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound. Beyond drumming, he occasionally contributed vocals and songwriting to several Beatles hits.
Starr’s successful solo career after The Beatles disbanded in 1970 further bolstered his wealth. His hit singles, such as “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Photograph,” and “You’re Sixteen,” earned him continued popularity. His influence as a musician is immense, and he remains one of the most respected drummers in the world. Additionally, Starr’s acting career, which includes roles in films like Candy and That’ll Be the Day, along with his narration of the popular children’s series Thomas & Friends, added to his financial success.
Ringo Starr’s Early Life and Struggles
Richard Starkey, later known as Ringo Starr, was born on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England, to Richard and Elsie Gleave. His childhood was challenging, marked by his parents’ divorce and his father’s absence. Starr’s health struggles also defined his early years. At the age of six, he underwent an appendectomy, which led to peritonitis, putting him in a coma for several days. During his lengthy recovery, he lived in a hospital and struggled academically, unable to read or write by age eight.
In 1953, Starr contracted tuberculosis and spent two years in a sanatorium, where he first encountered music. Encouraged to join the hospital band, Ringo developed an interest in percussion, which set the stage for his future musical career. After his release from the sanatorium, he struggled to find motivation, but his stepfather eventually secured him a job as an apprentice machinist. During this time, he befriended Roy Trafford, with whom he began playing music during lunch breaks. Ringo’s mother later gifted him a second-hand drum kit, marking the beginning of his drumming journey.
Ringo Starr’s Path to The Beatles
Ringo Starr’s music career took off when he joined the popular local band, Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. In 1960, Starr’s band crossed paths with The Beatles, leading to his first recording session with them. Just two years later, in 1962, Ringo replaced Pete Best as The Beatles’ drummer, solidifying the final lineup of the world’s most influential band. Starr’s distinctive drumming style, which was characterized by his left-handed approach on a right-handed kit, became a hallmark of The Beatles’ sound.
During his time with The Beatles, Starr occasionally sang lead vocals on tracks such as “With a Little Help from My Friends” and “Yellow Submarine,” and even wrote songs like “Octopus’s Garden.” His drumming style and musical contributions were integral to the band’s success, and he became an iconic figure in rock and roll.
Post-Beatles Career and Legacy
After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Ringo Starr ventured into a successful solo career. His albums Ringo and Goodnight Vienna achieved commercial success, and he continued to release hit singles such as “Photograph” and “You’re Sixteen.” Beyond music, Starr ventured into acting, with notable roles in films like Caveman and Lisztomania, and narrating the children’s television shows Thomas & Friends and Shining Time Station, the latter earning him an Emmy Award.
Starr’s involvement in peace initiatives, especially his yearly “peace and love” campaigns, further solidified his reputation as an influential public figure. In recognition of his contributions to music, Ringo was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018. Even today, he continues to tour and produce music, maintaining his relevance and passion for the craft. His influence as a drummer remains significant, with Rolling Stone naming him the fifth-greatest drummer of all time in 2011.
Earnings and Success as a Solo Artist
Ringo Starr’s earnings have remained strong throughout his career. In 2013, over 30 years after The Beatles’ breakup, he earned $3 million from touring and record sales. Today, Starr can easily make $3 to $5 million per year, primarily from live performances. His continued success, both as a solo artist and as a member of The Beatles, has solidified his financial status and earned him a place among the wealthiest musicians in the world.
Ringo Starr’s Personal Life
Ringo Starr’s personal life has been as eventful as his career. In 1965, he married Maureen Cox, and the couple had three children: Zak, Jason, and Lee. Unfortunately, the marriage ended in 1975 due to Starr’s infidelities. He later admitted to being a troubled husband and father during this period. Maureen tragically passed away in 1994 from leukemia.
In 1980, Starr met actress Barbara Bach on the set of Caveman. The two married in 1981 and have remained together ever since. They share eight grandchildren, and in 2016, Ringo became a great-grandfather, making him the first Beatle to achieve this milestone. Starr is a vegetarian and meditates daily. His motto, “peace and love,” has defined both his personal and professional life.
Charity and Philanthropy
Ringo Starr has also dedicated a significant portion of his fortune to charity. In 2015, Ringo and Barbara Bach auctioned off over 1,300 items from their personal collection, raising an impressive $9.2 million. The proceeds went to the Lotus Foundation, which they established in 2004 to provide support to a variety of charitable causes. Among the items auctioned was Ringo’s iconic 1963 Ludwig Oyster Black Pearl drum kit, which sold for $2.25 million, and a personal copy of The Beatles’ White Album, which fetched a record $790,000.
The sale also featured Starr’s pinky ring, which sold for over $106,000, and a gold record for “I Want to Hold Your Hand” that went for $68,750. The auction was a significant event in memorabilia, with many fans and collectors eager to own a piece of Beatles history.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Ringo Starr’s real estate portfolio is as impressive as his musical career. In 1971, he purchased Tittenhurst Park, John Lennon’s former home, located in Berkshire, England. Today, Starr and Barbara Bach split their time between homes in Los Angeles, Cranleigh, England, and Monte Carlo. They also maintain a residence in London’s exclusive Chelsea district. Ringo’s lifestyle is one of luxury and relaxation, balanced with his commitment to music and philanthropy.
Starr’s life, both personal and professional, has been marked by incredible achievements and significant financial success. From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the world’s wealthiest and most influential musicians, Ringo Starr’s legacy is one of resilience, talent, and a commitment to spreading peace and love.