Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, recently shared the surprising origins of his iconic catchphrase, “Peace and love.” In an interview with the Associated Press, the 84-year-old musician revealed that the motto was inspired by his time spent in San Francisco during the hippie era. “It actually came, for me, from San Francisco, where the hippies were,” Starr said. “They were, of course, great peace and lovers.
I found a picture the other day of the four of us [giving the peace sign]… I didn’t invent it, I just picked it up. John was a big proponent of peace and love, and it just came to me.”
While many assumed that Starr coined the phrase after visiting India with his bandmates in 1968, he clarified that it was the influence of the hippie culture in San Francisco that truly resonated with him.
Over the years, Starr has come to appreciate the significance of his message, especially in today’s world.
Origins of Starr’s catchphrase
“I think it’s important every day — and right now the world is going through a madness.
Maybe it’ll help,” Starr said, emphasizing the relevance of spreading positivity and love. Throughout the interview, Starr also touched upon his naturally optimistic outlook on life, which he attributes to the challenges he faced in his early years, including a two-year stay in a sanatorium due to tuberculosis. “I just feel positive,” he explained.
“Not every day, and not all my life, but some of those things I knew I needed from what I was 13, really ill in hospital.”
Despite his age, Starr shows no signs of slowing down. The soon-to-be 85-year-old is gearing up for a tour with his All Star Band later this month, proving that his passion for music and spreading his message of peace and love remains as strong as ever. As the world continues to navigate through difficult times, Ringo Starr’s enduring message serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing positivity and spreading kindness wherever possible.
