This concert premieres on PBS August 25, 2005 (check local listings)

The Beatles are the single most influential band in Rock history. Ringo Starr, whose given name is Richard Starkey, has continued the tradition The Beatles began back in the early-‘60s. After the band split in 1970, he has released a myriad of albums, including his most recent effort, 2005’s Choose Love. His distinguished career has produced a string of hits along the way. In 1971 he hit the Top 10 with the single, “It Don’t Come Easy,” and the following year he returned to the charts with “Back Off Boogaloo.” Number one hit “Photograph” followed in 1973 from his self-titled record; the album also spawned “Oh My My,” which soared into the Top 10.

His musical quests continued throughout the ‘80s, including touring with his All-Starr band, and he made three albums in the ‘80s. The new millennium finds Starr quite prolific. In addition to the aforementioned Choose Love, he also released the catchy Ringorama. Starr and longtime collaborator/producer Mark Hudson continually put out lovely records that embrace Starr’s beginnings while adding a pop flavor that pleases the tastes of today.

This special Soundstage program was filmed at the Genessee Theatre in Waukegan, Illinois. Joined by Hudson, Starr’s stellar set list spans the hits of his former band along with his own inspired works. In addition to the aforementioned hits making the set, Beatles’ fans will love the performances of “Yellow Submarine,” “With A Little Help From My Friends,” and “Octopus’s Garden.” The poignant “Never Without You,” from Ringorama is also of note – Starr penned the piece in honor of Harrison’s passing. His infectious “Memphis In Your Mind” and the sing-along “Photograph” performances punctuate the mix. Surprise guest Colin Hay from Men At Work adds whimsy to the set with “Down Under” and “Who Can It Be Now” flavoring this momentous Soundstage performance.