Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, is making some country music with his upcoming album Look Up, set to release on January 10th, 2025. While it might seem unexpected for a former Beatle to go country, this isn't Starr’s first rodeo in the genre.
In fact, Ringo has a long history with country music, even dating back to his time with The Beatles. He took lead vocals on their 1965 cover of Buck Owens' "Act Naturally," a massive hit that helped bridge the gap between British rock and American country. Starr also co-wrote and sang lead on a few Beatles tracks that leaned heavily into country, like "What Goes On" from Rubber Soul and "Don’t Pass Me By* from The White Album.
But his love for country really took off after The Beatles split. In 1970, Ringo released Beaucoups of Blues, a full-on country album recorded in Nashville with some of the best session players in the business. Though it didn't make waves on the charts at the time, it has since become a cult favorite among country fans.
Now, more than 50 years later, Ringo Starr is tapping back into that passion for Look Up, produced by the renowned T Bone Burnett. The album will feature collaborations with modern country stars like Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, and Alison Krauss, along with contributions from Larkin Poe and Lucius. With Burnett penning most of the tracks, Ringo’s latest project promises to be an intriguing blend of his love for country and his timeless rock legacy.
Though some might raise an eyebrow at a Beatle returning to country music, Ringo has always been a genuine fan of the genre. His connection to country music is not just a fleeting trend but a deep-seated passion, one that began decades ago and continues to inspire him today.
