Ringo Starr Net Worth

Ringo Starr’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Life and Finances of a Beatle

Ringo Starr, born Richard Starkey, is an iconic figure in music history, best known as the drummer for The Beatles. Beyond his drumming prowess, Starr is a singer, songwriter, and actor with a remarkable career. This article explores Ringo Starr’s net worth, delving into his earnings, early life, career milestones, personal life, and philanthropic endeavors.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Richard Starkey was born on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England. His childhood was marked by health challenges, including an appendectomy and a bout of tuberculosis that led to a two-year stay in a sanatorium. It was during his time in the sanatorium that Starr’s interest in music began. Encouraged to join the hospital band to stimulate motor skills and alleviate boredom, he discovered a makeshift mallet to strike the cabinets next to his bed, which led to his first exposure to percussion instruments. This early experience sparked a passion for drumming. He would later be introduced to the music of Dinah Shore, Sarah Vaughan, and Billy Daniels through his stepfather Harry Graves.

After leaving the sanatorium, Starkey sought employment, but faced challenges in finding his path. Eventually, he became an apprentice machinist at a Liverpool school equipment manufacturer. It was here that he befriended Roy Trafford, and they bonded over their mutual love of music.

In 1957, Starr received a second-hand drum kit as a Christmas present from his stepfather, which set the stage for his musical journey. He honed his drumming skills and joined several local bands, including Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. It was during this period that he adopted the stage name Ringo Starr. The Hurricanes gained considerable popularity in Liverpool, and Ringo’s path would soon cross with that of The Beatles.

The Beatles Era: Joining the Fab Four

Ringo Starr’s life took a pivotal turn in 1962 when he was invited to join The Beatles, replacing their original drummer, Pete Best. This marked the beginning of his journey with what would become the world’s most famous band. Alongside John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, Starr completed the iconic lineup. His unique drumming style, characterized by his innovative fills and understated yet essential contributions, became an integral part of The Beatles’ sound. His drumming style, caused by playing left-handed on a right-handed instrument, is often cited as an influence by modern percussion artists. He also contributed lead vocals on several Beatles tracks, including “Yellow Submarine” and “With a Little Help from My Friends.”

Although often overshadowed by the songwriting duo of Lennon and McCartney, Ringo’s presence and unique style were vital to The Beatles’ sound. He also penned songs for the group, including “Octopus’s Garden,” showcasing his creative abilities beyond drumming.

Solo Career: Chart-Topping Success

Following The Beatles’ breakup in 1970, Ringo Starr embarked on a successful solo career. His early albums, including “Ringo” and “Goodnight Vienna,” achieved commercial success. He released multiple hit singles, including “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Photograph,” “You’re Sixteen,” and “Back Off Boogaloo.” These songs demonstrated his knack for crafting catchy and heartfelt tunes, solidifying his status as a solo artist. He also ventured into acting, appearing in films like “Caveman” and narrating the children’s television series “Thomas & Friends.”

In addition to his music career, Starr has been a strong proponent of peace and love throughout his career. He’s been known to celebrate his birthdays with a call for a global moment of peace.

Earnings and Financial Highlights

Ringo Starr’s net worth is estimated to be $350 million, making him the richest drummer in the world. His wealth stems from his successful music career with The Beatles, his solo work, and his various ventures in acting and television. In 2013, more than 30 years after the Beatles broke up, Starr brought in $3 million from touring and record sales. Today, he can easily make $3-5 million per year with just a few live performances.

Personal Life and Relationships

Ringo Starr has been married twice. In 1965, he married Maureen Cox, and their wedding was attended by Beatles manager Brian Epstein as best man. The couple had three children: Zak, Jason, and Lee, before divorcing in 1975. Starr later admitted to past struggles and his determination to improve. Maureen passed away in 1994.

In 1980, Starr met actress Barbara Bach on the set of the film “Caveman.” They married in 1981 and remain married. Ringo is a grandfather to eight grandchildren and, in 2016, became a great-grandfather.

Starr is a vegetarian and practices daily meditation, embodying his life motto of “peace and love.”

Charity Garage Sale

In 2015, Ringo Starr and his wife, Barbara Bach, held a charity garage sale to auction off over 1,300 pieces of memorabilia. The sale raised an impressive $9.2 million, with proceeds benefiting the Lotus Foundation, the couple’s charity established in 2004. The highlight of the collection was Ringo’s 1963 Ludwig Oyster Black Pearl drum kit, which he used in over 200 Beatles concerts and on early hit singles. The drum kit sold for $2.25 million to Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts.

Irsay, a dedicated Beatles fan, aimed to own an instrument from each band member. He previously acquired a 1965 Rose-Morris Rickenbacker guitar that John Lennon had given to Starr. Other notable items sold included a framed gold record for “I Want To Hold Your Hand” and Starr’s pinky ring. The auction showcased Starr’s incredible impact on music history.

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Real Estate Ventures

In 1971, Ringo Starr purchased John Lennon’s home, Tittenhurst Park, in Sunninghill, Berkshire. He and Barbara Bach split their time between homes in Los Angeles, Cranleigh, England, and Monte Carlo. He also owns a home in the Chelsea district of London.

Legacy and Honors

Ringo Starr’s musical contributions have been widely recognized. He was knighted in 2018, becoming Sir Richard Starkey. In 2022, he received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beatles and as a solo artist. His drumming style has influenced generations of musicians.

Starr’s impact on the music industry remains strong today. In 2023, it was reported that Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, the two surviving Beatles, are set to release music together. Throughout his career, Ringo Starr has exemplified the values of peace, love, and musical innovation, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.