10 Fascinating Stories Behind Rock Music Star Stage Names

10. Put A Ring On It - Ringo Starr

Many laughs have been had at the expense of Ringo Starr over the years and, to be fair, the man doesn't help himself sometimes, but it's important to remember that he is also one of the most influential drummers of all time.

The Beatles' timekeeper was in another band before he joined up with the other members, acting as drummer and occasional vocalist for Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. It was during this time period that the man born Richard Starkey would adopt his most famous moniker.

Starr came from his birth surname, but Ringo was a nicknamed he'd earned by wearing multiple rings on his hands. Starkey took on the name to add more flair to his persona, thinking it would make him sound like one of the country and western singers he idolised.

The name stuck and it's how he's known to this very day, some 60 years on from its creation. Starr's love for rings was even incorporated into the plot of The Beatles' 1965 film Help!, in which a strange cult hunt the star down because he's gotten one of their jewels stuck on his finger.

Oh Ringo, what are you like?