Get ready for a musical journey like no other! Sir Ringo Starr, the legendary Beatles drummer, is back with a brand-new album that’s bound to captivate fans old and new. Titled Long Long Road, this 10-track masterpiece is a testament to Starr’s enduring creativity and his ability to evolve as an artist. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: the album, recorded in Nashville and Los Angeles, dives deep into country and Americana vibes, blending Starr’s iconic style with fresh influences. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the music; it’s about the collaboration. Starr teamed up once again with the legendary T Bone Burnett, the Grammy and Oscar-winning producer known for his work with Bob Dylan and iconic film soundtracks like O Brother, Where Art Thou? and Walk the Line. Their partnership has sparked something truly special, with Starr himself reflecting, 'I’m blessed to have T Bone in my life right now.'
Starr, born Richard Starkey in Liverpool, describes the album’s creation as almost serendipitous. 'After we did the last record, which I love listening to, this one just sort of happened,' he shared. He credits his 'right moves' in life, like collaborating with Burnett, for bringing Long Long Road to fruition. The title itself is a nod to his decades-long journey in music, a journey that’s been anything but straightforward. But here’s the controversial part: while Starr’s roots are firmly in rock ’n’ roll, this album leans heavily into country and Americana—a bold move that might surprise some fans. Is this a natural evolution or a departure from what we expect from a Beatle? We’ll let you decide.
The album also pays homage to guitar legend Carl Perkins, whose influence Starr has long admired. 'I recorded two Carl Perkins songs with The Beatles, and both T Bone and I wanted one on this record,' Starr explained. Burnett unearthed a lesser-known Perkins track, 'I Don’t See Me In Your Eyes Anymore,' which Starr had never heard before. The result? A beautiful addition to the album that bridges generations of musical genius. Burnett, meanwhile, couldn’t help but praise Starr’s talent, calling him 'of the highest calibre' and even writing a Gene Autry-inspired song for the album because, as Burnett puts it, 'I always heard Ringo as a Texas artist.'
Long Long Road is more than just an album—it’s a reflection of Starr’s enduring passion for music and his willingness to explore new horizons. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his work, this release promises something for everyone. Mark your calendars: Long Long Road drops on April 24th. But before you go, we want to hear from you: Do you think Starr’s dive into country and Americana is a bold reinvention or a natural next step? Let us know in the comments—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
