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Today in History: Beatles Replace Pete Best with Ringo Starr

8/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On August 16, 1962 the Beatles dismissed drummer Pete Best after two years with the group and recruited Ringo Starr as his replacement. Starr, known as Sir Richard Starkey, became the band’s permanent drummer, later adding vocals and songwriting to their recordings and driving their worldwide success.

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Story summary

On August 16, 1962 the Beatles dismissed drummer Pete Best after two years with the group and recruited Ringo Starr as his replacement. Starr, known as Sir Richard Starkey, became the band’s permanent drummer, later adding vocals and songwriting to their recordings and driving their worldwide success.