Ringo Starr may be one of the most successful pop drummers in the world. But can you believe he didn’t get inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame until 2015? When his time finally rolled around, the star was bound to celebrate with some live renditions of his greatest hits. But no one could have expected Paul McCartney to rock up and close the show with a Beatles cover!
This clip went viral when it made its way onto YouTube, amassing over 13 million views to date. And the irony verges on being an absolute dad joke—Ringo, Paul, and a host of session musicians performing the “Sgt. Pepper” album track, “With A Little Help From My Friends.”
Ringo takes the mic, Paul playing his classic Höfner 500/1 violin bass like the good old days, their sound padded out by an obscene number of guitarists, backing band, and a gospel choir of singers who work wonders on the chorus.
As the janky pop hit plays out, surprise guests Green Day, Miley Cyrus, Dave Grohl, John Legend, Stevie Wonder, and Joan Jett join the cover, amongst countless other stars, making for one of the most legendary cross-overs we’ve seen here at The Music Man. Don’t miss the moment Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong shares the mic with Joan Jett, looking like the greatest punk rock power couple the world has ever known!
This ultra-wholesome performance proves the power of The Beatles’ music lives on; not just the explorative rock anthems or early, ground-breaking pop hits, but all the feel-good grandma tunes in between.
Paul and co. weren’t the only special guests to honor Ringo at his induction. Before this viral performance, Ringo took part in two other star-studded throwbacks; first performing his pre-Beatles tune “Boys” with fellow 2015 Hall of Fame inductees Green Day, then Ringo’s 1971 solo hit “It Don’t Come Easy” with Joe Walsh, guitarist for the Eagles and Ringo’s brother-in-law.
Following “With A Little Help From My Friends,” Ringo and Paul closed the show with another live Beatles hit – “I Wanna Be Your Man.”
Ringo Starr was also honored with an induction speech by Paul McCartney, and a now-viral compilation clip of tributes entitled, “World’s Greatest Drummers Salute Ringo Starr.” Music Man readers can check it out in the video above!
Viewers have been busy fangirling over Ringo and his star-studded band, with countless comments singing his praise. Top commenters have shared:
“Everybody makes fun of Ringo, but anybody with knowledge knows when the Beatles signed him he was one of THE most sought after drummers. There were 4 geniuses in one band. There will NEVER be another like them. Ever.”
“Ringo is a treasure and so is Paul. Watching this is a joy. The Beatles will live forever.”
“Timeless Ringo still looks like a 40 year old Italian.”
“You know s**t’s serious when each of the backing vocalists have sold a few million records each.”
Ringo Starr’s Hall of Fame induction truly turned into an unforgettable tribute to the Beatles, showcasing the timeless magic of their music. This viral moment with Paul McCartney joining the stage adds another splendid chapter to their legacy. If you’re eager to relive this iconic performance or explore more from these legendary musicians, don’t miss the useful links provided below.