Photos By: Tom Rentz
The Ringo Starr And His All Starr Band concert at the Fraze Pavilion in Kettering, OH, was an unforgettable night, combining legendary talent with timeless music. The sold-out show drew a crowd of eager fans ready to witness a live performance by one of the world's most iconic drummers and his exceptional band of rock veterans.
Ringo Starr took center stage with his characteristic charm and energy, immediately connecting with the audience. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd was into every song, dancing and singing along to the classics. From the first beat, it was clear this would be more than just a concert—it was a journey through decades of rock history.
The All Starr Band members each brought their unique flair to the performance. Steve Lukather from Toto delivered his signature guitar riffs with impeccable precision, adding a dynamic layer to every song. His solos were show-stopping moments, capturing the audience's full attention. Colin Hay of Men At Work showcased his distinctive vocal style and guitar skills, drawing cheers as he performed some of his hits. Warren Ham, also from Toto, added depth with his saxophone and harmonica skills, weaving soulful melodies that complemented the band's sound perfectly.
Hamish Stuart from the Average White Band anchored the rhythm section with his tight bass lines, locking in seamlessly with Gregg Bissonette, the drumming powerhouse known for his work with the David Lee Roth Band, Joe Satriani, and ELO. Bissonette's drumming was dynamic and powerful, yet perfectly balanced, providing the ideal backdrop for Ringo's signature style. Buck Johnson, who has played with Hollywood Vampires, Aerosmith, and Brother Cane, filled out the band's sound with his versatile keyboard playing, adding rich textures to each track.
The setlist was a well-curated mix of Beatles classics, solo Ringo hits, and songs from the members' original bands. The crowd erupted in joy with every familiar intro, especially during Beatles anthems like "Yellow Submarine" and "With a Little Help from My Friends." Ringo's vocals were as engaging as ever, and he switched effortlessly between the drums and the microphone, proving that his charisma and talent remain undiminished.
Each band member had a moment to shine, bringing their hits to the forefront. Colin Hay captivated the audience with "Down Under," bringing a wave of nostalgia, while Steve Lukather's rendition of Toto's "Africa" was a highlight, with the crowd enthusiastically singing along. These moments added to the concert's epic feel, showcasing the band's diverse musical backgrounds.
The camaraderie among the band members was palpable, and their joy in playing together translated into an energetic and cohesive performance. It was clear that they were not just backing musicians; each was an All Starr in their own right, contributing to the show's electrifying atmosphere. The sound mix was flawless, highlighting the intricate musical layers and ensuring that each instrument was heard clearly.
The audience's energy never waned throughout the show, and Ringo's infectious positivity spread across the pavilion. His humorous banter and upbeat stage presence made the concert feel personal and intimate, even in the large setting of a sold-out venue.
As the final notes rang out and the band took their bows, it was evident that this concert was more than a nostalgic trip; it was a celebration of music by a group of legendary artists still at the top of their game.
Setlist:
- Matchbox (Carl Perkins Cover)
- It Don't Come Easy (Ringo Starr Song)
- Rosanna (Toto Cover)
- Pick Up The Pieces (Average White Band Cover)
- Down Under (Men At Work Cover)
- Boys (The Shirelles Cover)
- I'm The Greatest (John Lennon Cover)
- Yellow Submarine (The Beatles Song)
- Cut The Cake (Average White Band Cover)
- Octopus's Garden (The Beatles Song)
- Back Off Boogaloo (Ringo Starr Song)
- Overkill (Men At Work Cover)
- Africa (Toto Cover)
- Work To Do (The Isley Brothers Cover)
- I Wanna Be Your Man (The Beatles Song)
- Who Can It Be Now (Men At Work Cover)
- Hold The Line (Toto Cover)
- Photograph (Ringo Starr Song)
- With A Little Help From My Friends (The Beatles Song) / Give Peace A Chance (The Plastic Ono Band Cover)