On July 7, 2025, the world paused for a moment of joy and nostalgia as Sir Richard Starkey — better known as Ringo Starr — turned 85. Among the countless birthday wishes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike, one message stood above the rest.
It came not from a stranger or an admirer, but from the one person who’s walked with him through decades of fame, change, and music: Sir Paul McCartney.
In a surprise tribute video, Paul sang a heartfelt rendition of the Beatles’ song “Birthday,” originally recorded for Ringo’s 70th back in 2010. But this time, his voice carried something deeper. A softness. A quiet celebration. A lifetime of rhythm shared.
@ringostarrmusic This is a little reminder that on my birthday on Monday 7.7.25, I ask that at noon your local time if you can give peace and love, that is my gift from you, thank you. And this is my gift to you – peace and love everybody. peace and love Ringo. 😎✌️🌟❤️🎶🍒🥦🌈☮️
♬ original sound – Ringo Starr ✌️
“To Richie,” Paul said in the video, calling Ringo by his real name, “my brother behind the beat… Happy 85th birthday, lad. Love forever.”
There was no stage. No crowd. Just Paul’s voice, his guitar, and a message wrapped in decades of friendship. And somehow, that made it all the more powerful.
Their bond is the last living thread of The Beatles — not just a band, but a phenomenon that changed the world. While John Lennon and George Harrison are no longer here, Paul and Ringo have continued to stand side by side. Supporting each other’s solo projects, appearing together at concerts, and above all, never letting go of the bond forged through music and time.
In 2010, Paul surprised Ringo during his 70th birthday concert at Radio City Music Hall, walking onstage to perform “Birthday” live. In 2019, he lent his harmonies to Ringo’s moving cover of John Lennon’s “Grow Old With Me.” In interviews, both men often reflect on their shared journey, their admiration for one another, and their belief that what they had — and still have — is rare and sacred.
“If there’s one person I’d want to make music with for the rest of my life,” Paul once said, “it’s Ringo.”
Since 2008, Ringo has asked fans around the world to celebrate his birthday by saying “Peace and Love” at noon, wherever they are. In 2025, his 85th, this global gesture took on new meaning. Paul’s tribute felt like the heart of that message — music as love, music as peace, music as memory.
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