A Journey Before the Beatles: Ringo Starr’s Drumming Careers
John Richard Starkey, better known as Ringo Starr, is one of the most recognizable drummers in music history. Before joining The Beatles, Ringo was immersed in the vibrant music scene of Liverpool, England. His journey started with a local skiffle group before he joined Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. This article delves into the early drumming careers of Ringo Starr and his path to becoming a legendary drummer in one of the most influential bands in music history.
Early Beginnings with The Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group
In the late 1950s, Ringo was a member of a local skiffle group called The Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group.
Skiffle was a genre of music that emerged in the UK during the 1950s and 1960s, essentially a blend of folk, jazz, and blues. It was mostly played on homemade or inexpensive instruments, making it accessible to a wide range of people. Ringo's involvement with this group laid the groundwork for his early musical experience and drumming style.
Transition to Rory Storm and the Hurricanes
Ringo's musical journey took a significant turn when he joined another popular Liverpool band, Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. This group had some regional success and was known for their energetic live performances.
The Hurricanes played covers and were known for their strong, lively sound. They performed at venues like the famous The Cavern Club. Ringo's presence in the Hurricanes brought him into the same musical scene as The Beatles, and it was here that he started to establish a regional reputation for his drumming.
“Starr Time” was a famous feature where Ringo would showcase his drumming skills during the band's performances. His drum solos were particularly memorable and became one of the highlights of their shows.
The Beatles: A New Chapter
In August 1962, Ringo officially joined The Beatles as their permanent drummer, replacing Pete Best. This marked a significant milestone in Ringo's career.
What some people might not know is that before Ringo replaced Pete Best, Ringo had been a part of another band called Johnny and the Hurricanes. This group was even bigger than The Beatles at the time, but their music was not widely known or recorded. Ringo's transition from this group to The Beatles was a notable one, reflecting his growth as a drummer and musician.
Legacy and Beyond
Ringo's drumming career with Rory Storm and the Hurricanes is especially noteworthy. Although the group did not release any recordings during the time Ringo was a member, a complete concert by Rory Storm and the Hurricanes was released on CD in 2012. It was recorded on March 5, 1960, and unfortunately, Ringo was unwell at the time.
Despite not being in the studio recordings, the live performances and the recognition of his drumming style during this period helped Ringo build the reputation he would bring to The Beatles. Ringo's drumming has been a crucial part of The Beatles' success and has left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
In conclusion, the musical journeys of Ringo Starr before joining The Beatles, including his time in The Eddie Clayton Skiffle Group and Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, played a significant role in shaping his career and his iconic status as a drummer. His contributions to both the music industry and The Beatles' legacy cannot be overstated.