Let me tell you about a guy who turned a hospital stay into a lifelong passion for music. Richard Starkey, better known as Ringo Starr, is not just one of the most iconic drummers in rock history but also a man who’s amassed a fortune thanks to his incredible talent. Born in Liverpool in 1940, Ringo’s life took a dramatic turn when he joined The Beatles in 1962. That decision wasn’t just about changing bands—it was about stepping into a global phenomenon that would forever change the music industry.
Ringo’s estimated net worth today is a staggering $350 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But it wasn’t always about the money for this guy. Growing up in Liverpool, Ringo faced some tough challenges early on, including a bout with tuberculosis at the age of 14. During his long recovery, the hospital nurses handed out instruments to keep the patients entertained. Little did they know, giving Ringo a drum would spark a lifelong love affair with rhythm and percussion. "They gave me a little drum, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to be a drummer," he reminisced in a 2021 interview with You & I magazine. "And here I am now, still doing it. Isn't that amazing? We're in an incredible business where retirement isn’t mandatory. As long as I can keep going, I plan to go well beyond 80."
From Hospital Drumming to Global Stardom
Ringo wasn't just invited to join The Beatles—he was destined to. He replaced drummer Pete Best, and from the moment he stepped in, it was clear he belonged. Not only did Ringo excel behind the drum kit, but he also stepped up to the mic for some of the band's most iconic songs, like "With a Little Help from My Friends" and "Yellow Submarine." The world watched in awe as The Beatles made their U.S. television debut on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964, with over 73 million viewers tuning in. Beatlemania wasn’t just a trend—it was a cultural revolution, selling more than 600 million albums globally and over 1.6 billion singles.
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Building an Empire Beyond Music
Ringo's involvement with The Beatles went beyond just playing drums. In the early days, he owned a share in Beatles Ltd., a corporation that allowed each member to invest in their royalties. This eventually evolved into Apple Corps, a conglomerate responsible for producing The Beatles' movies, including Yellow Submarine and Let It Be. To this day, Ringo, along with Paul McCartney and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, still holds a significant stake in Apple Corps.
In 1970, Ringo decided to branch out on his own, announcing his departure from The Beatles to focus on a solo career. Over the years, he released seven studio albums in the '70s alone, crafting chart-topping hits that showcased his versatility as an artist. He even tried his hand at acting, narrating the beloved animated series Thomas & Friends in 1984, and has since released over 20 solo studio albums. His work ethic and passion for music have never waned, even as he approaches his ninth decade of life.
A Legacy of Peace and Love
In 2015, Ringo was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in music history. But Ringo's legacy isn't just about the music; it's about the message he's always carried with him. "Don't be your own worst enemy. Be your own best friend," he advised in the 2014 book The Common Thread of Overcoming Adversity and Living Your Dreams. "As long as it's for love and for peace, then I'm okay. That's the sentiment I'm always trying to send out to the world: peace and love. And that was the message we were handing out to the world with The Beatles—and I think you could say it went pretty well."
