Ringo Starr Reflects on New Album 'Long Long Road' and Country Music Affinity
Stephen KingProlific author of horror and suspense, who also writes extensively on the craft of writing and pop culture.
Legendary musician Ringo Starr recently offered a glimpse into his latest musical endeavors, particularly his second collaborative album with producer T Bone Burnett, titled 'Long Long Road.' This project further cements Starr's exploration into country and Americana sounds, a genre where he feels his distinctive vocal quality finds a natural home. The album, which follows closely on the heels of their previous success 'Look Up,' showcases a relaxed yet profound musical journey, enriched by the contributions of both seasoned and emerging artists.
T Bone Burnett, a long-time admirer of Starr's often-underestimated vocal talents, envisioned this series of albums as a means to reintroduce the ex-Beatle's voice in a fresh context. Despite his iconic status as a rock and roll drummer, Starr's venture into country music has a historical precedent, dating back to his contributions as an occasional lead singer with The Beatles. The latest album, 'Long Long Road,' released just 15 months after its predecessor, 'Look Up,' reveals a remarkable stylistic evolution. The collaboration features an impressive roster of musicians, including Molly Tuttle, Billy Strings, David Mansfield, Dennis Crouch, Colin Linden, Daniel Tashian, and Paul Franklin, all of whom contribute to the album's rich and resonant sound. Listeners will be particularly struck by the melodic quality of Starr's singing, a soothing presence that transcends mere nostalgia and suggests a path he might have pursued earlier in his career.
During a recent visit to Los Angeles, Starr discussed various aspects of his new album and upcoming projects. He touched upon the organic progression from their first album to 'Long Long Road,' describing the recording process as a joyous treat rather than a demanding task. Starr primarily recorded his drum and vocal tracks in his L.A. studio, sending them to Burnett in Nashville for further instrumentation and production. This seamless workflow allowed for creative freedom and a comfortable working relationship. He also reflected on his experiences promoting the previous album, including a memorable performance at the Grand Ole Opry, an institution deeply rooted in country music. Starr expressed his long-standing appreciation for diverse musical genres, including blues, pop, and soul, reiterating that he has always found enjoyment in various forms of music.
Burnett's profound admiration for Starr's voice is a central theme in their collaboration. He often emphasizes how well Starr's voice complements country music, a sentiment Starr himself echoes. Despite his playful self-assessment that he'd love to sound like Ray Charles, Starr acknowledges that his natural vocal timbre is ideally suited for the country genre. The conversation also touched upon Starr's famous nickname, 'Ringo,' which originated from his habit of wearing rings and evolved from his given name, Richard Starkey. This anecdote highlights the informal and authentic nature of his early career. Starr remains actively involved in musical endeavors, with plans for a 'best-of' compilation and a potential EP later in the year, alongside a limited tour schedule, ensuring a busy and creatively fulfilling period for the enduring artist.
