Ringo Starr’s livestream 80th birthday celebration
By tsell on July 9, 2020
featuring star-studded guests and performances
By Trent Sell
The infamous Ringo Starr did his 80th virtual birthday bash right, spreading peace, love, and positivity, all while supporting some great organizations.
Ringo’s Big Birthday Show
Ringo Starr’s birthday celebration looked a bit different this year, due to social distancing and the Coronavirus. He kicked off his live stream with some footage from his past years, explaining “This is how we usually do it.”
At just over an hour-long, the July 7th live stream featured an awesome lineup of guests. Performances and appearances from Paul McCartney, Joe Walsh, Ben Harper, Dave Grohl, Gary Clark Jr., Sheila E., Sheryl Crow, and more.
As Ringo narrated the event from behind his drum kit, he also joined many of the guest performers for some long-distanced jams. Performances included, “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Helter Skelter” with former Beatles bandmate Paul McCartney, and a duet with Sheila E. for “Come Together.”
In addition, the charity concert supported four great organizations, Black Lives Matter, The David Lynch Foundation, MusiCares, and WaterAid. Ringo also took the time to address the important injustices and issues surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement. “Let’s say it again: Black lives matter! Stand up and make your voice heard!” said Ringo. He called for all viewers around the world to rally together “the fight for justice, equality, and an end to all this racist violence.”
The Beatles’ legend paid tribute to a number of Black artists who influenced himself and the Beatles. “We loved listening to Ray Charles, Little Richard — my hero — Stevie Wonder. Sister Rosetta Tharpe: I saw her live at the Cavern. And my stepdad’s favorite: Billy Eckstine. The list goes on and on.”
You can rewatch the entire birthday celebration here.
