Ringo Starr joined The Beatles just before their meteoric rise, bringing a vital spark to the band. Despite his strong bonds with John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, Starr's musical input often went unnoticed. Hunter Davies, author of the band's only authorized biography, noted Starr's limited role in the studio, as relayed by CheatSheet.com.
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As tensions grew within the group, Starr's frustrations led to a brief exit, but his bandmates quickly reaffirmed his value.
Struggles in the Studio
By the late 1960s, The Beatles' cohesion frayed. Harrison quit temporarily, and Starr, feeling sidelined, walked out during the recording of the 1968 double album, known as the White Album.
"Ringo was fed up being their drummer," Davies wrote in The Beatles. "In the studio, he was often virtually ignored." After the band stopped touring in 1966, Starr's role diminished. McCartney even played drums on several tracks. Lennon and McCartney would work on arrangements for hours, leaving Starr waiting. "There was often no need for Ringo to be there at all," Davies explained. His parts could be added later.
The boredom and lack of involvement pushed Starr to quit. He left for a day, frustrated by his marginal role. Yet, his absence shook the band. They swiftly reached out to bring him back.
A Warm Welcome Back
Starr vacationed with his family after leaving. His bandmates sent a telegram: "You're the best rock'n'roll drummer in the world. Come on home, we love you." Touched, Starr returned. McCartney admitted they had taken him for granted. To celebrate his return, the band decorated Starr's drum kit with flowers. "We don't always tell our favorite drummer he's great," McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. "Ringo felt insecure, so we told him he's the best for us." Starr, moved by the gesture, rejoined the group.
The Moment Starr Shined
Starr's talent was undeniable, even if underappreciated. McCartney recalled Starr's first performance with the band, filling in for drummer Pete Best. During a rendition of Ray Charles' "What'd I Say," Starr mastered a challenging drum part. "Most drummers couldn't nail it, but Ringo did," McCartney said at Starr's 2015 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. "We looked at each other, and it was like, 'What is this?' That was the beginning of The Beatles." Starr's addition proved pivotal. Soon after, the band skyrocketed to global fame.
Starr's journey with The Beatles highlights his resilience and skill. Though overlooked at times, his drumming defined the band's sound and legacy.
