84-Year-Old Ringo Starr Releases New Music With Country Influences
Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, has made a notable return to his country music roots with the release of his new album, Look Up, on January 10, 2025. This album marks his first full-length release in six years and showcases his enduring passion for country music, a genre he previously explored in his 1970 album, Beaucoups of Blues.
The title track, “Look Up,” stands out as a testament to Starr’s ability to blend uplifting lyrics with his characteristic vocal style. Co-written by T Bone Burnett, Daniel Tashian, and Paul Kennerly, the song encourages listeners to find hope even in challenging times, with lines like “Up above your head / Where the music plays / There’s a light that shines / In the darkest days.” Starr’s delivery adds a layer of sincerity, making the message resonate deeply.
The official music video for “Look Up” complements the song’s optimistic theme. It features a montage of serene landscapes and moments of human connection, emphasizing the song’s call to remain hopeful and connected. The visual aesthetics align seamlessly with the track’s soothing melody, creating an immersive experience for viewers.
A significant aspect of Look Up is Starr’s collaboration with renowned producer and songwriter T Bone Burnett. Their partnership began after a chance meeting in Los Angeles in 2022, where Starr requested Burnett to write a song for an EP he was working on. Burnett responded with nine country-inspired songs, leading to the creation of this full-length album. Burnett’s influence is evident throughout the album, from the modern yet sensitive production to the selection of talented musicians contributing to the tracks.
The album features contributions from notable artists, including Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, Larkin Poe, Lucius, and Alison Krauss. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the album, enriching its country essence. For instance, Billy Strings’ growling electric guitar on “Rosetta” introduces a grunge-inspired feel, adding depth to the album’s soundscape.
Starr’s vocals throughout the album are both poignant and reflective. On tracks like “Time on My Hands” and “Never Let Me Go,” there’s a nostalgic quality reminiscent of his Beatles era. His voice carries a slight rasp, particularly on “Come Back,” which adds to the song’s rueful tone. While his drumming is more understated in this album, the opener “Breathless” showcases his signature style with characteristic tumbling drum fills.
The tracklist of Look Up is as follows:
1. Breathless (featuring Billy Strings)
2. Look Up (featuring Molly Tuttle)
3. Time On My Hands
4. Never Let Me Go (featuring Billy Strings)
5. I Live For Your Love (featuring Molly Tuttle)
6. Come Back (featuring Lucius)
7. Can You Hear Me Call (featuring Molly Tuttle)
8. Rosetta (featuring Billy Strings and Larkin Poe)
9. You Want Some
10. String Theory (featuring Molly Tuttle)
11. Thankful (featuring Alison Krauss)
Each track offers a blend of traditional country elements with modern influences, reflecting Starr’s adaptability and commitment to the genre.
To promote the album, Ringo Starr & Friends are scheduled to perform two nights of country music at Nashville’s storied Ryman Auditorium on January 14 and 15, 2025. These performances are highly anticipated, as they mark Starr’s return to live country music, offering fans a chance to experience the new album in a historic setting.
Critics have responded positively to Look Up. Pitchfork notes that the album “solidifies Starr’s place in country music, highlighting his enduring vocal charm and adept choice of collaborators.” The review praises the modern yet sensitive production and the seamless integration of Starr’s vocals with the instrumental arrangements.
In summary, Look Up is a testament to Ringo Starr’s enduring talent and his deep appreciation for country music. Through thoughtful collaborations and a genuine approach to the genre, Starr has crafted an album that pays homage to his musical roots while offering fresh and engaging content for listeners.
For those interested in experiencing the title track, the official music video for “Look Up” is available on YouTube:
If you want more music and videos from Ringo Starr, check out his YouTube Channel. Fans can also connect with him on Instagram and Facebook. Get news, updates, and tour info on his official website.

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