The Drumming Legacy of Ringo Starr and Levon Helm: A Legacy of Rhythm and Groove
The Beatles, with their iconic music, are remembered for their unique sound and distinctive style that captivated the world. Within this legendary band, the role of the drummer often carries special importance, providing the rhythm and backbone that brings songs to life. Two drummers stand out in their respective eras: Ringo Starr, the official drummer of The Beatles, and the late Levon Helm, a masterful musician with his band, The Band.
Ringo Starr: The Beatle Drummer
When one speaks of the best drummer in The Beatles, the name that invariably comes to mind is Ringo Starr. Ringo Starr joined The Beatles in 1962 and remained with them until the band's dissolution in 1970. His drumming was characterized by its unique rhythm and feel, contributing significantly to the band's iconic sound. Longtime lover of Paul McCartney, Ringo's drumming helped shape many of the band's defining tracks. Although some fans and critics debate the technical prowess of other members like Paul McCartney (who played drums on some tracks), it’s Ringo’s contributions and distinctive style that truly underscored The Beatles' success.
The band's official drummer was also a key player in the band's mechanics and dynamics. Songs like "Back in the USSR" and "The Ballad of John and Yoko" showcase his talents. Even before his time with The Beatles, Ringo's skills were recognized in the demo recordings on Anthology 1, where his 'sloppy and unrefined' drumming was evident. This contrasts with Paul's drumming in later recordings, which many consider better. Ringo's role as a creative contributor to the band's sound is undisputed.
Levon Helm: The Drumming Genius
Another drummer who has a unique place in the music history of a legendary band is Levon Helm, joined the storied roster of musicians with his band, The Band. While The Beatles had a permanent drummer, other bands have used their rhythm sections on an ad hoc basis or with changing personnel, much like The Band. Levon Helm’s drumming was a cornerstone of The Band's sound, contributing a depth and texture to the music that was unmatched.
Levon Helm's drumming was more than just facilitating the rhythm; it was an artistic expression that complemented the band's diverse and rich musical styles. His drumming added a unique dimension to the band's sound and helped shape hits like "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek."
After The Band disbanded, Levon Helm continued to make significant contributions to the music world with his solo career. Released shortly after The Band's dissolution, Levon Helm's follow-up project, the "Levon Helm and the RCO Allstars" album, is a testament to his drumming prowess. Often referred to as 'the Blues Brothers' of the 1980s, with guest musicians featuring Donald Duck Dunn, Lou Marini, Steve Cropper, and Matt 'Guitar' Murphy, this album is a vital testament to Levon's enduring talent as a drummer.
The Beatle's Drumming Evolution
It's important to note that The Beatles, a band known for its unique musical contributions, also went through a period where the drummer's role was filled by different members. Pete Best was initially the band's drummer but was replaced by Ringo Starr due to his poor fit with the band's evolving sound. Later, Richard Starkey (who was known by the stage name Richard Starky) filled in on drums for a handful of recordings but was not a permanent member.
The legacy of Ringo Starr and Levon Helm can be traced through their individual contributions to their respective bands. Both drummers, with their unique talents, helped define the sound of their musical eras. Ringo Starr's drumming with The Beatles set a standard for pop music production, while Levon Helm's drumming with The Band added depth and soul to roots and rock music.
The Legacy in Modern Music
The impact of Ringo Starr and Levon Helm's drumming has continued to influence modern music. Both drummers' technical skill, rhythmic creativity, and emotional expression continue to inspire drummers and music enthusiasts alike. Their legacy is not just about the music they made but also about the influence they had on the evolution of popular music.
Ultimately, the drumming legacy of Ringo Starr and Levon Helm is a testament to the importance of rhythm and groove in shaping the sound of a musical era. Their unique contributions to their respective bands not only defined the sound of The Beatles and The Band but also continue to resonate in the modern music world.