Ringo Starr Says He Still Feels “24” When He Sees Himself in the Mirror: “I Never Age”

Ringo Starr is set to celebrate his 85th birthday on July 7.

Ringo Starr Says He Still Feels 24 as He Approaches 85: “I Live in the Now”

As Ringo Starr prepares to celebrate his 85th birthday on July 7, the legendary Beatles drummer says he still feels decades younger.

In an interview with The New York Times published on July 2, Starr reflected on reaching such a milestone. “It blows me away,” he said. “I look in the mirror and I’m 24. I never got older than 24.”

When asked about the secret to his enduring energy and enthusiasm, Starr credited his love for music. “I love what I’m doing,” he said. He recalled his mother recognizing his happiness early on: “She would always say, ‘You know, son, I always feel you’re at your happiest when you’re playing your drums.’ And she was right. I love to hit those buggers.”

Emphasizing his laid-back outlook, Starr added, “I live in the now. I didn’t plan any of it. I love the life I’m lucky to have.”

Earlier this year, in an interview with PEOPLE, Starr joked about the idea of retirement — something his children are tired of hearing. “Sometimes when I finish a tour, I think, ‘That’s it.’ And all my kids say, ‘Dad, you’ve said that for 10 years now,’” he laughed. “Then I get a call about a few more gigs, and I’m back at it!”

In January, Starr released a country album titled Look Up and is set to hit the road again with his All Starr Band for a series of shows in September. He also filmed a concert special at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

In February, the Beatles were honored with a Grammy for Best Rock Performance for “Now and Then,” a song originally recorded by John Lennon that was completed with the help of artificial intelligence — and contributions from both Starr and Paul McCartney. “I didn’t expect to win, but it was great,” Starr said. “It just felt like John was with us.”