Ringo Starr’s Best and Worst Drumming Moments with The Beatles: A Critical Analysis

One of the most iconic drummers in rock history, Ringo Starr, was an indispensable part of The Beatles. His unique style and presence added a distinct character to songs that stand as timeless classics. However, were there any standout performances where Ringo shined, and were there any instances where his drumming was less than ideal?

The Golden Era: Ringo’s Best Drumming Performances

Ringo Starr’s best performances as a drummer with The Beatles are undeniably rich in their own right. He is often credited with his vivid, jazz-influenced drumming style, which has an indelible mark on The Beatles’ music. Below are the two standout performances that many critics and fans alike consider to be his best:

A Day in the Life

Mentioned by Mark Lewisohn, author of "The Beatles: Many Years From Now," A Day in the Life is a prime example of Ringo’s exceptional drumming. This 1967 song, with its complex, layered acoustic and electric guitar work, is a marvel of musical composition. Ringo’s drumming in this track is especially notable for its innovative and subtle use of cymbals and toms, which blend perfectly with the song’s layers of acoustic and electric guitars, bass, and keyboard. What marks Ringo’s drumming here is his restraint and precision, which gives the track an almost ethereal quality. The song’s introduction and outro, with its gentle cymbal rolls, are particularly exquisite, showcasing Ringo’s sophisticated playing.

Rain

Rain, a collaboration track released in 1966, also highlights Ringo’s best drumming. The track is notable for its bluesy, groovy rhythm, and Ringo’s drumming is essential to this bluesy feel. His steady, driving beat on the bass drum, combined with his thoughtful use of snare and cymbals, creates a perfect bed for the song’s harmonica and vocals. The song’s instrumental section, where Ringo’s drums are the focus, is particularly impressive, showcasing his versatile and soulful drumming style.

Ringo’s Undeniably Strong Reputation

According to Mark Lewisohn, who has studied the session tapes, Ringo has made fewer than two mistakes that affected a recorded take. This noteworthy fact underscores the reliability and professionalism of Ringo’s contributions to The Beatles’ studio recordings. Lewisohn’s expertise provides an authoritative perspective on Ringo’s playing, with no significant hiccups recorded in the music’s production. This speaks to the exceptional nature of Ringo’s drumming, as well as the overall quality of The Beatles’ recordings.

The Occasional Flaws: Ringo’s Worst Drumming Moments

That being said, even the best of drummers can have off moments. While rare, there is one instance where Ringo’s drumming did not quite hit the mark:

Thank You Girl

Mark Lewisohn, in his book, recalls that Ringo made a mistake during the recording of Thank You Girl. The song, released in 1965, is a cheerful, easy-listening track where Ringo’s drumming takes a more relaxed, less intense approach. While this is typically favorable, one take broke down due to Ringo’s mistake. This brief aside serves as a reminder that even with his impeccable skills, Ringo was not infallible and had occasional off-takes.

This minor flaw, however, does not detract from the overall quality and impact of Ringo’s drumming with The Beatles. It is a testament to his exceptional talent that such an infrequent mistake is still noteworthy and remembered.

A Legacy of Excellence

Whether in A Day in the Life or Rain, Ringo Starr’s drumming with The Beatles is a blend of both restraint and passion. His contributions go far beyond mere beats and fills; they are integral to the overall sound and mood of the songs. Even his unfortunate off-take in Thank You Girl serves to humanize an otherwise flawless drumming career. Ringo’s best drumming performances with The Beatles are a testament to his skill, reliability, and unparalleled musicality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ringo Starr’s drumming with The Beatles is a true highlight of rock music history. From his standout performances in A Day in the Life and Rain to the occasional flawed take in Thank You Girl, his contributions showcase his unique talent and dedication to the group. His drumming remains a constant source of admiration and study for drummers and music enthusiasts alike.

References

Lewisohn, Mark. The Beatles: Many Years From Now. New York: Fireside, 2019.