Zak Starkey, the accomplished drummer and son of Beatles legend Ringo Starr, recently performed at Liverpool’s iconic Cavern Club, where his father’s legendary journey with The Beatles began. The experience, which Starkey described as profound, saw him collaborating with his friend and fellow drummer Chris Sharrock, performing Beatles classics alongside the venue’s tribute band. Starkey reflected on being “picked up and carried by the music” during the set, an emotional connection to his father’s legacy that resonated deeply with him.
Despite a career that began at the age of 12 and has seen him perform with bands like The Who and Oasis, Zak Starkey admitted to feeling unusually nervous about playing the Beatles’ “holy music.” He expressed his reverence for the songs, calling them untouchable and emphasizing the pressure to play them flawlessly. However, the performance became a transcendent moment, guided by the energy of the venue and the music itself.
The show came ahead of a double set with Starkey’s supergroup, Mantra of the Cosmos, at the same venue. The band, featuring Shaun Ryder and Bez from Happy Mondays, Andy Bell of Oasis and Ride, and Starkey himself, has developed a distinctive sound that Starkey described as unpredictable, shaped by Ryder’s freestyle poetry. He praised the Cavern Club for supporting smaller acts like theirs, highlighting how playing two shows in a day helped cover the costs of operating as an independent band without a major label.
Zak Starkey also voiced concerns about the decline of smaller venues, lamenting the disproportionate focus on large arenas at the expense of spaces that nurture emerging talent. While acknowledging the value of big arenas, he underscored the importance of preserving intimate venues that serve as the backbone of music culture.
In addition to his work with Mantra of the Cosmos, Starkey touched on his collaborations with his father, Sir Ringo Starr, including a charity single for the Teenage Cancer Trust. The track, a tribute to late guitarist Marc Bolan, was a collaborative effort involving global stars such as Sir Elton John, Billy Joel, and Iggy Pop. However, Starkey revealed that the release of the song has been stalled due to issues with someone “withholding” the material. He expressed frustration over the delay, emphasizing the potential impact the track could have in raising funds for teenagers with cancer.
The Cavern Club performance also coincided with news of an Oasis reunion tour featuring Noel and Liam Gallagher, which Starkey, a former member of the band, hailed as a significant moment for fans. While calling Oasis the “greatest band of my generation,” he refrained from confirming any involvement in the reunion.
Starkey’s recent endeavors reflect a deep respect for his musical heritage and a commitment to innovation. Balancing the weight of his father’s legacy with his creative pursuits, he continues to carve a distinct path in the music world while championing the importance of authenticity and community.