Ringo Starr, whose real name is Richard Starkey, was born on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England. His childhood was marked by several challenges and hardships, but it also laid the foundation for his later success as a musician and one of the members of the iconic band, The Beatles.
Here are some key aspects of Ringo Starr's childhood:
Health Issues: Ringo experienced health problems from an early age. At the age of six, he contracted appendicitis, which led to a lengthy hospitalization. Later, he developed pleurisy, a condition that caused inflammation in the lining of his lungs, resulting in several more hospital stays.
Family Background: Ringo's parents, Elsie and Richard Starkey Sr., were divorced when he was three years old. He was primarily raised by his mother, and his father had limited involvement in his life. The family faced financial struggles, living in a working-class neighborhood in Liverpool.
Education: Ringo attended St. Silas Primary School and later went to Dingle Vale Secondary Modern School. However, he struggled academically, and his passion for music overshadowed his interest in formal education.
Interest in Music: Ringo showed an early interest in music and started playing the drums as a teenager. He taught himself to play and joined various local bands, developing his drumming skills.
Health Setbacks: Apart from the health issues mentioned earlier, Ringo faced a severe health setback at the age of 13 when he developed tuberculosis. He spent two years in the hospital, during which time he had to miss out on regular schooling and fell significantly behind in his studies.
Artistic Development: Despite the challenges he faced, Ringo's perseverance in pursuing music paid off. He played with several bands before eventually joining The Beatles in August 1962 as their drummer. This marked a turning point in his life, leading to international fame and success.
Ringo Starr's childhood experiences, both the difficulties and his passion for music, played a crucial role in shaping the person he would become. His unique drumming style and laid-back personality made him an integral part of The Beatles and endeared him to fans worldwide. Beyond his time with the band, he had a successful solo career and continued to be involved in music and other artistic endeavors.