🥁 Paul McCartney Pays Tribute to Ringo’s Irreplaceable Groove

🥁 Paul McCartney Pays Tribute to

Ringo’s Irreplaceable Groove

Paul McCartney, speaking in a pre‑birthday feature for The New York Times, didn’t hold back when describing his longtime friend and bandmate:

“Even though I’ve played with other drummers, he’s the best,” McCartney said in a phone interview.

He elaborated, “Ringo has got a certain feel that is very difficult for other drummers to capture.” 

Those words offer more than just praise—they reflect decades of rhythm, trust, and shared history. When McCartney added, “He’s Ringo. And nobody else is,” it summed up the essence of Starr’s singular place not only in McCartney’s life, but in the heart of The Beatles’ sound. 

👫 A Bond Forged Through Time

At 83 and 84 respectively, McCartney and Starr now stand as the last surviving Beatles. In the same feature, McCartney reflected on their deep connection:

“With John and George not here, I think we realize nothing lasts forever,” said McCartney.

“So we grasp onto what we have now because we realize that it’s very special… There’s only me and Ringo, and we’re the only people who can share those memories.” 

This sentiment resonates powerfully in a world where iconic partnerships are rare—and the bond between these two legends is one of a kind.

🎤 Onstage Emotion and Unshakeable Chemistry

Their December 2024 reunion at London’s O2 Arena was more than nostalgic—it stirred raw emotion. McCartney called their performance of “Helter Skelter” an “out‑and‑out rocker,” yet admitted he became “a little bit emotional” when standing beside his old friend. 

It’s a testament to the unspoken chemistry built over more than six decades—one gig, one performance, one life shared.

🎶 Ringo’s Enduring Legacy

Beyond their brotherhood, McCartney emphasized Ringo’s unmatched musical intuition. As he put it, Ringo’s feel and unique timing “is very difficult for other drummers to capture.” 

That assessment isn’t just McCartney’s opinion—fellow musicians have long echoed it:

• Max Weinberg called Ringo’s inclusion in The Beatles “a coup for the three of them.”  
• Critics and fans alike note that Ringo wasn’t flashy—he was the heartbeat, providing an unshakeable foundation. His fills, timing, and taste elevated songs without overpowering them.  

🎂 Approaching a Milestone: Ringo at 85

As Ringo approaches his 85th birthday on July 7, 2025, the Times profile and McCartney’s words offer a portrait of a man who continues to beat with youthful energy. Starr himself recently said he feels “24” when he looks in the mirror and still loves “hitting those buggers”—his drums. 

Their friendship—rooted in Liverpool dreams and global superstardom—remains as vibrant and rare as ever. McCartney put it simply: there’s no one like Ringo. ()

💫 Final Thoughts

In an era defined by fleeting fame, the music world is lucky to witness such enduring creative kinship. Ringo Starr was the backbone of The Beatles’ groove, and Paul McCartney’s tribute confirms what many have felt for decades: his talent, feel, and spirit are truly irreplaceable.

Paul’s message is clear—on drums, friendship, and legacy, Ringo stands alone.