Challenges Faced by Ringo Starr: Obstacles and Turning Points
A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Ringo Starr's life and career.
Ringo Starr, born Richard Starkey, is a celebrated English musician, songwriter, and actor, globally recognized as the drummer for the Beatles. He occasionally sang lead vocals, most notably on "Yellow Submarine" and "With a Little Help from My Friends", typically contributing one song per album. He also wrote and sang the Beatles tracks "Don't Pass Me By" and "Octopus's Garden", alongside co-writing credits for four additional songs, showcasing his diverse musical talent within the iconic group.
May 1948: Discharged from Hospital After Appendicitis
In May 1948, Ringo Starr was discharged from Liverpool's Myrtle Street children's hospital after a year-long recovery from appendicitis and peritonitis.
1953: Contracted Tuberculosis
In 1953, Ringo Starr contracted tuberculosis and was admitted to a sanatorium for two years, where he was first exposed to percussion instruments.
September 1962: First Recording Session with The Beatles
Ringo Starr's first recording session as a member of the Beatles took place on 4 September 1962, but on 11 September 1962, he was temporarily replaced by session drummer Andy White due to George Martin's initial doubts.
1964: Libel Suit, Illness During World Tour, and Introduction to Bob Dylan
In 1964, Lennon's Playboy interview led to a libel suit from Pete Best. Before the Beatles' world tour in June 1964, Ringo Starr was hospitalized with a high-grade fever and was temporarily replaced by Jimmie Nicol. After being discharged, Ringo rejoined the band in Melbourne on June 15. Also, in August 1964, the Beatles were introduced to Bob Dylan, who offered them cannabis.
1967: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
In 1967, for the Beatles' album, 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band,' Starr sang lead vocals on "With a Little Help from My Friends." The long hours recording the album contributed to Starr's feeling of alienation within the band.
August 1969: Final Beatles Gathering at Abbey Road Studios
On August 20, 1969, the Beatles gathered for the final time at Abbey Road Studios for a mixing session for "I Want You."
April 1970: Public Announcement of the Beatles' Break-Up
On April 10, 1970, McCartney publicly announced his departure from the Beatles, formalizing the band's break-up.
April 1970: Release of Sentimental Journey and Fallout with McCartney
Shortly before McCartney announced his exit from the Beatles in April 1970, he and Starr had a falling out due to McCartney's refusal to cede the release date of his solo album to allow for Starr's debut, Sentimental Journey, and the Beatles' Let It Be.
1975: Divorced from Maureen Cox
In 1975, Ringo Starr and Maureen Cox divorced following Starr's infidelities and behavior.
April 1979: Serious illness and life-saving operation
In April 1979, Starr was hospitalized in Monte Carlo due to severe intestinal issues stemming from childhood peritonitis. He nearly died and underwent an operation on April 28, 1979, where a significant portion of his intestine was removed.
1982: Completion of "Old Wave" and label issues
In 1982, Starr completed the album "Old Wave" with Joe Walsh, but struggled to find a record company willing to release it in the UK or the US.
1987: Abandoned country album sessions
In 1987, Starr abandoned recording sessions in Memphis for a planned country album, produced by Chips Moman, after which Moman was blocked by a court injunction from issuing the recordings.
November 1988: Detox treatment for alcoholism
In November 1988, Starr and Barbara Bach underwent treatment for alcoholism at a detox clinic in Tucson, Arizona.
2001: Starr Reflects on Career Downturn
Speaking in 2001, Ringo Starr reflected on his career downturn in the mid-1970s. He attributed this downward turn to his "[not] taking enough interest" in music, alluding to struggles with substance abuse.
