Ringo Starr: The Cowboy of The Beatles
The Grizzled Cowboy Persona
Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, has often been described as the band’s cowboy—the rugged, silent type hailing from the wrong side of the tracks. With his emotive voice reminiscent of heartbroken days spent rounding up cattle, he brought a unique flavor to the band’s sound. Notably, his performance of “Act Naturally,” a song originally by Johnny Russell and Buck Owens, showcased this persona, delivered with the slurred charm of a man nursing a hangover on a difficult ride.
A Return to Country with “Look Up”
In 1970, Starr ventured into the world of country music with his album Beaucoups of Blues, recorded in Nashville with renowned pedal steel player Pete Drake. Now, fifty-five years later, he revisits the genre with his latest release, Look Up, collaborating with T Bone Burnett—a former guitarist for Bob Dylan, known for his ability to coax a genuine country swing from artists across generations.
Burnett’s Influence
While Ringo Starr is undoubtedly the star of the show, one could argue that Look Up also belongs to Burnett. The album features modern production infused with delicate touches, such as the lush pedal steel and strings that cradle the track “Time on My Hands.” Burnett contributes guitar work on most tracks and has writing credits on nine of the eleven songs, skillfully crafting tunes that suit Starr’s distinctive melancholic style.
Exploring Themes and Sounds
Poignant Lyrics and Melodies
The title track, “Look Up,” is a perfect example of how Starr’s understated delivery can transform a positive message into something subtly poignant. Lines like “Up above your head/Where the music plays/There’s a light that shines/In the darkest days” are delivered with a hint of Liverpudlian ennui that adds depth. Meanwhile, “Never Let Me Go” carries the essence of Merseybeat, reminiscent of the early Beatles sound, featuring a harmonica melody that evokes memories of “Love Me Do.”
Cupboard of Musical Influences
Throughout the album, Starr demonstrates his vocal prowess, with only a slight rasp on “Come Back,” a testament to the passage of time that fits the song’s reflective tone. However, his drumming—a hallmark of his talent—somewhat recedes into the background. Only on the opening track “Breathless” does his vibrant drumming style shine through, featuring the thrilling fills and cymbal crashes that characterized many Beatles hits.
Risk and Experimentation
Despite its traditional roots, Look Up takes some creative risks. One of the standout tracks, “Rosetta,” features a grungy electric guitar line from Billy Strings that complements Starr’s warm, gravelly vocals, showcasing a side of him that feels contemporary yet grounded. In contrast, the previous album, What’s My Name, included a misstep with Joe Walsh’s ill-fated anti-internet rap, highlighting that Starr is capable of evolving without being trapped in nostalgia.
Conclusion: A Timely Relevance
Ringo Starr’s Look Up resonates with both long-time fans and newer audiences, thanks in part to the cyclical nature of musical trends. His ability to infuse a gritty, heartfelt charm into country music, combined with his choice of collaborators, positions him as one of the UK’s most compelling country singers. The album serves as a testament to Starr’s enduring relevance, showcasing how his Liverpool blues seamlessly connect across the Atlantic to the heart of country music.
FAQs
1. What genre does Ringo Starr’s new album “Look Up” belong to?
The album primarily falls within the country music genre, reflecting Starr’s long-standing influences and collaborations.
2. Who produced the album “Look Up”?
T Bone Burnett, a well-known musician and producer, played a significant role in the production of the album, contributing to its modern yet earthy sound.
3. How does Ringo Starr’s vocal style contribute to the album?
Starr’s unique vocal tone, characterized by a slight rasp and emotive delivery, enhances the album’s themes of melancholy and nostalgia, making the songs feel authentic and relatable.
4. What is the significance of the album’s title track, “Look Up”?
The title track encapsulates the album’s message of hope and resilience, while Starr’s delivery adds a layer of reflective melancholy to the positive lyrics.
5. Does “Look Up” feature any notable collaborations?
Yes, the album features collaborations with T Bone Burnett and contributions from other musicians, enriching its sound and depth.