Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band returned to Toronto’s iconic Massey Hall on September 28, 2022, for an unforgettable evening of music, camaraderie, and timeless classics. The 82-year-old Beatle, known for his infectious energy and unwavering enthusiasm, led a stellar lineup of musicians through a setlist that spanned decades and genres. From the opening notes to the final encore, the night was a celebration of friendship, peace, and the enduring power of music.
Full Setlist
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Matchbox (Carl Perkins cover)
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It Don’t Come Easy (Ringo Starr original)
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What Goes On (The Beatles)
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Free Ride (The Edgar Winter Group)
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Rosanna (Toto)
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Pick Up the Pieces (Average White Band)
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Down Under (Men at Work)
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Boys (The Shirelles)
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I’m the Greatest (John Lennon)
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Yellow Submarine (The Beatles)
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Cut the Cake (Average White Band)
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Frankenstein (Edgar Winter Group)
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Octopus’s Garden (The Beatles)
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Back Off Boogaloo (Ringo Starr original)
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Overkill (Men at Work)
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Africa (Toto)
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Work to Do (The Isley Brothers)
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I Wanna Be Your Man (The Beatles)
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Johnny B. Goode (Chuck Berry)
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Who Can It Be Now? (Men at Work)
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Hold the Line (Toto)
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Photograph (Ringo Starr original)
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Act Naturally (Johnny Russell)
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With a Little Help from My Friends (The Beatles)
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Give Peace a Chance (John Lennon)
The Energy
From the moment Ringo Starr stepped onto the stage, the energy in Massey Hall was palpable. The crowd erupted in applause as he greeted them with his signature peace sign and a warm smile. Despite his age, Ringo exuded the same infectious enthusiasm that has endeared him to fans for decades. His charisma and genuine love for performing were evident throughout the evening.
The All Starr Band, a rotating ensemble of accomplished musicians, complemented Ringo’s energy perfectly. Each member took turns showcasing their talents, adding depth and variety to the performance. The chemistry between the band members was evident, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound that resonated with the audience.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
One of the standout moments of the evening was Ringo’s rendition of “What Goes On”, a lesser-known Beatles track. The audience responded with enthusiasm, singing along and clapping to the rhythm. Ringo’s playful banter with the crowd added to the charm of the performance, making it a memorable highlight.
Another crowd favorite was “Yellow Submarine”, during which Ringo encouraged the audience to sing along. The entire hall joined in, creating a sea of voices that filled the venue with joy and nostalgia. The sense of community and shared experience was palpable, reminding everyone of the unifying power of music.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at Massey Hall was one of warmth and camaraderie. Ringo’s interactions with the audience were genuine and heartfelt, making each person feel like a part of the performance. His messages of peace and love resonated deeply, especially during the encore performance of “Give Peace a Chance”, which brought the crowd to their feet in a standing ovation.
The All Starr Band’s diverse repertoire ensured that there was something for everyone. From the soulful grooves of “Pick Up the Pieces” to the rock anthems of “Rosanna” and “Africa”, the setlist was a journey through musical history. The seamless transitions between songs and the band’s tight arrangements kept the energy high and the audience engaged.
Tiny Quibbles
While the performance was nearly flawless, there were a few minor moments that could have been improved. Some audience members noted that the acoustics in certain areas of the hall made it difficult to hear the vocals during quieter songs. However, these instances were brief and did not detract significantly from the overall experience.
Additionally, the setlist, while diverse, leaned heavily on songs from Ringo’s solo career and the Beatles catalog. While these are undoubtedly fan favorites, a few deeper cuts or more recent tracks might have added an interesting twist to the evening.
Final Thoughts
Ringo Starr’s performance at Massey Hall was a testament to his enduring talent and passion for music. At 82, he continues to captivate audiences with his energy, humor, and musical prowess. The All Starr Band’s cohesive performance and diverse setlist ensured that the evening was a celebration of musical history and friendship.
For those fortunate enough to attend, the concert was a reminder of the timeless appeal of Ringo Starr and the power of live music to bring people together. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, Ringo’s performances are a must-see experience that leaves a lasting impression.