The drummer Ringo Starr considers his “all-time hero” and how he made him his bandmate in 1989

Ringo Starr regards drummer Jim Keltner as his “all-time hero”, praising his versatility and feel for what a song needs. Their partnership reflects Starr’s preference for musicians who serve the music and work well together, rather than seeking attention through showy solos.

The two first worked together on Starr’s 1973 solo album *Ringo*. When Starr formed the All-Starr Band in 1989, he brought Keltner in as a bandmate; they toured together once, and Keltner has made occasional appearances with the group since. Keltner’s credits include work with Bob Dylan, Neil Young, George Harrison, John Lennon and many other major artists; Starr also praised Dave Grohl, while saying Keltner remained unmatched in his eyes.