Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band

Mohegan Sun Arena
Uncasville, Connecticut
September 20, 2024

Photos & Review by Tom Bogus

UNCASVILLE, Conn. – The energy was palpable at Mohegan Sun Arena as Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band took the stage for a night filled with timeless classics. The venue was packed, and as soon as Ringo appeared at around 8:15 pm, the crowd was ready for a musical journey that blended Beatles nostalgia, 70s and 80s rock hits, and Ringo’s solo material.

Ringo kicked off the evening with “Matchbox,” a Carl Perkins cover that got the audience on their feet. He followed this with “It Don’t Come Easy,” a reminder of his solo success. The night saw Ringo moving between singing lead and playing drums, sharing the spotlight with his All-Starr bandmates, who each brought hits from their respective bands into the mix.

Steve Lukather, known for his work with Toto, delivered on all fronts. His performances of “Rosanna,” “Africa,” and “Hold the Line” were met with overwhelming cheers, proving once again why these songs remain timeless. Colin Hay, with his unmistakable voice, drew huge reactions from the crowd, especially during Men at Work classics like “Down Under” and “Overkill.” Hamish Stuart of Average White Band added a funky touch to the set with “Pick Up the Pieces” and “Cut the Cake,” the latter of which Ringo humorously dubbed the “Magical Musical Moment” as he slipped backstage for a quick breather.

But it was Ringo’s renditions of Beatles hits that left the audience in awe. “I Wanna Be Your Man” and “Octopus’s Garden” were both charming reminders of Starr’s legacy with the Fab Four. He also performed fan-favorite solo tracks like “Photograph” and “Back Off Boogaloo,” his signature upbeat, feel-good anthems that resonated deeply with the crowd.

The musicianship was tight and cohesive throughout the night, with Gregg Bissonette’s powerful drumming, Buck Johnson’s expert work on the keys, and Warren Ham’s multi-instrumental prowess on horns, percussion, and flute adding dynamic layers to the sound. The interplay between the band members created a relaxed, fun atmosphere—each taking turns in the spotlight, yet always functioning as a true ensemble.

The concert ended on an emotional high with “With a Little Help From My Friends,” which had the entire arena singing along. The addition of the “Give Peace a Chance” chorus felt particularly poignant, a gentle reminder of the enduring message of peace and unity that Ringo, and his late bandmate John Lennon, have championed for decades.

Overall, the night was a spectacular showcase of classic rock anthems, infectious energy, and the undeniable charisma of Ringo Starr. His All-Starr Band was a perfect ensemble, each member contributing something unique to the mix, making the night feel like a celebration of musical history. From the opening notes to the final sing-along, the performance was nothing short of fantastic.

Ringo Starr, now 84, proved that age is just a number. His joy in performing was infectious, and it was clear that, surrounded by his All-Starr Band, he was having as much fun as anyone in the crowd. The night was a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and a celebration of music that continues to inspire across generations.

PHOTO GALLERY:

Setlist:
1. Matchbox (Carl Perkins cover)
2. It Don’t Come Easy (Ringo Starr song)
3. Rosanna (Toto cover)
4. Pick Up the Pieces  (Average White Band cover)
5. Down Under (Men at Work cover)
6. I’m the Greatest (John Lennon cover)
7. Boys (The Shirelles cover)
8. Yellow Submarine (The Beatles cover)
9. Cut the Cake (Average White Band cover) (Ringo described it as the “Magical Musical Moment” as he goes off backstage)
10. Octopus’s Garden (The Beatles cover)
11. Back Off Boogaloo (Ringo Starr song)
12. Overkill (Men at Work cover)
13. Africa (Toto cover)
14. Work to Do (The Isley Brothers cover)
15. I Wanna Be Your Man (The Beatles cover)
16. Who Can It Be Now (Men at Work cover)
17. Hold the Line (Toto cover)
18. Photograph (Ringo Starr song)
19. With a Little Help From My Friends 
(The Beatles cover) (included ‘Give Peace a Chance’ by the Plastic Ono Band chorus at the end)