Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, has had a fascinating journey, both in his personal life and musical career. One aspect that often raises curiosity is his biological father and whether Ringo ever had the opportunity to meet him.
Ringo’s biological father was Richard Starkey, born in 1913. Richard married Elsie, Ringo’s mother, in 1936. However, their marriage was short-lived, and Richard Starkey left his wife and young Ringo in 1943, shortly after Ringo’s third birthday. The reasons for his departure remain unknown, but it is presumed that alcohol and gambling played a role in his absence.
After Richard’s departure, Elsie went on to remarry a Jewish man named Harry Graves when Ringo was 14 years old. This Jewish stepfather became a significant influence in Ringo’s life. Ringo grew up in the Dingle neighborhood of Liverpool, which was known for being one of the rougher and economically disadvantaged areas. Even today, guided Beatles-themed bus tours of Liverpool mention Ringo’s childhood home but merely point down the street, indicating the area where he grew up.
During his childhood, Ringo faced various health issues, including appendicitis, peritonitis, and tuberculosis. He spent a significant amount of time in hospitals and convalescent homes. It was during this time that Ringo developed a love for music, particularly the drums. His stepfather Harry Graves, who was an avid fan of big-band music and vocals, recognized Ringo’s passion and gifted him his first drum kit as a Christmas present in 1957.
Ringo’s stepfather’s musical influence can be observed in his debut solo album, “Sentimental Journey.” The album showcased Ringo’s renditions of pre-rock pop standards, such as “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing” by Sammy Fain and “Bye Bye Blackbird” by Mort Dixon.
Throughout his career with The Beatles, Ringo was surrounded by individuals of Jewish heritage who played significant roles in the band’s success. From their manager Brian Epstein to lawyer David Jacobs, many key figures were Jewish. The Beatles’ journey was shaped by collaborations with Jewish professionals, including photographer Dezo Hoffman and filmmaker Richard Lester. Jewish hairdresser Leslie Cavendish, who learned from Vidal Sassoon, styled the Beatles’ hair during the mid-to-late 1960s.
Ringo’s personal relationships also had Jewish connections. He arranged for Frank Sinatra to record a revised version of “The Lady Is a Tramp” called “The Lady Is a Champ” as a gift for his wife, Maureen Cox. Sammy Cahn, a Jewish-American songwriter, customized the lyrics for this special recording. Notably, this was the first release on the Beatles’ own label, Apple.
In his solo career, Ringo achieved success with hits like “It Don’t Come Easy” and “Photograph,” both penned by his former bandmate George Harrison. He topped the charts with his rendition of “You’re Sixteen,” written by the Jewish-American Sherman Brothers, known for their work on family shows like “Mary Poppins.”
Ringo’s personal life led him to a long and happy marriage with Barbara Bach, a Jewish woman and former Bond girl. They celebrated their 39th anniversary recently, demonstrating their enduring bond.
Throughout his musical journey, Ringo crossed paths with Bob Dylan on multiple occasions and performed at various notable events. He also embarked on a unique touring concept, bringing together a rotating lineup of talented musicians.
In 2018, Ringo made his first performance in Israel with his All-Starr Band, defying calls for a boycott. This performance was significant as The Beatles had been scheduled to play in Tel Aviv in 1966 but were prevented from doing so. Ringo’s visit to Israel was a part of his ongoing musical legacy and commitment to his fans.
As Ringo celebrates his birthday, his remarkable life and contributions to music continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His journey as a musician and the influences surrounding him reflect the rich tapestry of the music industry and the diverse backgrounds that have shaped his career.