Ringo Starr Is Going Back To Country Music

Ringo Starr has been releasing EPs since 2021, but he’s now gearing up for a full-length album. Following the April release of Crooked Boy, Starr is circling back to country music, a genre that has been a significant part of his career both with the Beatles and as a solo artist.

Starr revealed to USA Today:

“I’m working on it with someone very special – T Bone Burnett.
“He’s doing stuff in Nashville and he comes to L.A. and it’s all working out. He came to me with nine songs. It won’t be out until October, at least.”

Starr’s connection to country music is deep-rooted. His 1970 album Beaucoup of Blues was recorded in Nashville, solidifying his country influence that began with Beatles-era covers like Buck Owens’ “Act Naturally” and his own original “Don’t Pass Me By.” He recorded the album with top-notch country musicians and producer Pete Drake, a Nashville legend known for his steel guitar playing.

“I think some of my finest vocals are on that album,” Starr has said, “because I was relaxed.”

All-Starr Band Announces Summer 2024 Tour Dates

Starr first met Drake during the sessions for George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, where they both appeared on the title track. Trusting Drake’s judgment, Starr let him select the material and the session musicians, which included notable names like Charlie Daniels, Ben Keith, and D.J. Fontana.

While details about the musicians for Starr’s upcoming country album remain under wraps, he’s set to hit the road later this month with his All-Starr Band. This tour will feature long-time collaborator Steve Lukather, who has been Starr’s longest-serving solo bandmate, appearing on every All-Starr Band tour since 2012. Starr said:

“I’ll never get rid of Luke; he has a lifelong ticket.
“He’s my last best friend. You need time to make best friends. He’s an incredibly good musician and an incredible human being.”

As Starr prepares for both his new album and the summer tour, fans can look forward to seeing him return to his country roots and continue his musical journey with the All-Starr Band.