Ringo Starr Receives Honorary Doctorate on 86th Birthday: ‘Follow Your Dreams’

Ringo Starr marked his 86th birthday in a grand celebration held in Beverly Hills, which included the bestowal of an honorary degree from the University of Liverpool. The event took place on 7 July 2026 and was attended by fans and fellow musicians alike. Known for his legendary role as the drummer of The Beatles, Starr expressed gratitude for the recognition and shared reflections on his life and career during the festivities.

Starr took a moment to thank the University of Liverpool for honouring him in Los Angeles. He described the degree as a significant recognition of his contributions to music and expressed how deeply honoured he felt. “I want to thank the University of Liverpool for this honorary degree and for coming all the way to L.A. to bestow it,” he remarked, as reported by BBC News.

During his speech, the musician encouraged attendees to pursue their dreams, sharing insights from his own journey. He recounted how he had faced initial discouragement from family when he decided to pursue drumming full-time. “I’ve been thinking back on my life a lot lately, and when I chose to become a drummer full-time, my family discouraged me,” he reflected. “And they could have been right, but they weren’t—it all worked out.”

At the annual Peace and Love Birthday Celebration held at Beverly Gardens Park, Wendy Beetlestone, the Chancellor of the University of Liverpool, acknowledged the profound impact Starr’s music has had on the city’s identity. She noted it was a “great privilege” to recognise Starr, whose work with The Beatles has significantly shaped Liverpool’s global reputation.

In an interview with PEOPLE at the event, Starr revealed his recent collaboration with Paul McCartney on the track “Home to Us.” The two iconic musicians came together in a unique way for the song, which features both Starr and McCartney singing together. “It’s the first time we’ve ever done it like a couple. We’re both singing it,” Starr explained with a hint of humour. “It’s not like we don’t know each other.” His appreciation for McCartney’s talent was evident as he praised his friend’s incredible bass playing and songwriting skills.

Specifically discussing the song, which is part of McCartney’s latest album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, Starr expressed his admiration for their long-standing friendship and careers. “I loved it because we were in this band together, and it’s just the best band ever. I mean, I can go on forever. He’s just a wonderful lad,” he continued.

Earlier this year, Starr released a country album titled Long Long Road, which he described as a homecoming of sorts. Reflecting on the creative process for this album, he shared fond memories of his first venture into country music. “I did a country album 50 years ago, [Beaucoups of Blues]. That was great because it just came about by chance,” he recalled.

Starr recounted how, after The Beatles disbanded, he was in Nashville working with George Harrison. A chance encounter with Nashville musician Pete Drake led to an invitation that changed Starr’s musical trajectory. “He said to me, ‘You gotta come to Nashville and make a record.’ I said, ‘I don’t think so, I can’t spend months in Nashville.’ He said, ‘[Bob Dylan’s] Nashville Skyline took two days!’ So, I went to Nashville and did a record in two days.”

As he celebrated his 86th birthday, Starr not only commemorated his extensive and influential career but also inspired others with his story of perseverance and dedication to following one’s passion. His message resonated deeply with the audience present, reminding everyone that regardless of the obstacles one might face, pursuing dreams can lead to fulfilling outcomes.

The birthday celebration not only highlighted Starr’s personal milestones but also served as a testament to his continued impact on the music industry and his enduring spirit. With collaborations still in motion and new projects on the horizon, Ringo Starr remains a vibrant figure in the landscape of contemporary music.