With a Little Help from His Friends

Odds of meeting one of the Beatles have gotten only slimmer over the years — the seminal rock band has been tragically depleted to half. Now all we’ve got left are Paul — and let’s be honest, what are your chances of ever encountering him if you’re not a vegetarian socialite on the European circuit — and, of course, Ringo Starr, who always seemed like the most approachable of the Fab Four in the first place. Starr is a talented and universally respected drummer, and the few Beatles songs he sings are the affable Everymen of the band’s impressive catalogue. “Octopus’s Garden,” “Don’t Pass Me By,” “With a Little Help from My Friends” — all are easygoing sing-alongs that perfectly fit Starr’s personality: friendly, lovable, and more than a little goofy. Which kind of reminds us of his paintings. Ringo’s pop art is exactly what you thought it would be — bright, happy, and full of that Starr joie de vivre. Basically, from an art appreciation perspective, it sucks. Don’t believe us? Visit www.ringostarrart.com to judge for yourself. No offense, Ringo — you’re still our second-favorite surviving Beatle!

But only the stuffiest of stuffed shirts would dare dis the exhibit at the Seminole Hard Rock. “Abstract Face” is open to the public and benefits The Lotus Foundation, plus all the artwork is, um, available for sale from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day through July 7. But this Thursday night is the time to check it out, because Ringo will be performing with his All Starr Band, the latest incarnation of which includes Men at Work’s Colin Hay, Hamish Stewart, and Billy Squier. Our fingers are crossed for Squier to bust out “The Stroke.” There’s a VIP art reception (which costs $2,950 to attend) prior to the concert. Call 888-513-8385 if your pockets are that deep. Otherwise, concert tickets start at $52 and are available through Ticketmaster. Visit www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com.
Thu., July 3, 2008