Beatles drummer Ringo Starr says Taylor Swift represents this generation’s Beatlemania

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In an exclusive interview with American Songwriter, legendary drummer Ringo Starr revealed who he believes is the modern-day equivalent of the Beatles in terms of cultural dominance and fan fervor.

The 84-year-old, who experienced the height of Beatlemania firsthand, pointed to none other than global pop sensation Taylor Swift as this generation’s answer to the Fab Four.

Ringo Starr's unwavering praise for Taylor Swift

Ahead of the release of his country album 'Look Up', Ringo Starr shared his admiration for Taylor Swift’s ability to draw in massive audiences and leave an indelible mark on the music world. He shared, "I think Taylor Swift is great anyway. She’s pulling them in, you know."

He went on to recount, "When we talk about her, I always have to mention that the first time I met her, she was 14. She was at the Grammys with her mother. Then, I saw a photo of her the other day, just yesterday, of her and her mother. So mom's still at it." 

Now, years later, the 'Lover' singer has become a cultural phenomenon, with Starr suggesting her influence rivals that of the Beatles during the 1960s.

The English musician's affection for Swift is not new. He’s been a fan for years, even naming her 2009 hit 'You Belong With Me' as one of his favorite songs. "I love Taylor Swift. That’s just how I am," said Starr during a conversation with ABC.

His former bandmate, Paul McCartney, has also spoken highly of Swift.

In a 2018 interview with the BBC, the 82-year-old revealed that he drew inspiration from the pop star's relationship with her fans when writing the song 'Who Cares'. He highlighted the unique connection she fosters with her young audience, saying it resembled a "sisterly" bond, one that reminded him of the way the Beatles related to their fans.

Other music legends have shared similar views. After attending one of Swift’s Eras Tour concerts in 2023, Billy Joel compared her to the Beatles, telling The New York Times, "The only thing I can compare it to is the phenomenon of Beatlemania."

Internet agrees with Ringo Starr's bold comparison between Taylor Swift and the Beatles

Ringo Starr's comments comparing Taylor Swift’s cultural impact to the Beatles' iconic Beatlemania resonated with netizens. 

One enthusiastic user wrote, "So not only Paul McCartney but Ringo Starr too? Oh, she is THE music industry," while another echoed, "Legend supporting legend."

A person shared, "That’s why she’s the music industry," and someone else added, "High praise from Ringo! Taylor truly captures the spirit of this generation, just like The Beatles did in their time."

"Taylor Swift’s massive impact and devoted fan base definitely mirror the excitement of Beatlemania. Ringo Starr’s recognition shows just how influential she is today," expressed an individual. 

"She is indeed a legend," declared one more. 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.