Ringo Starr, the legendary musician known for his time with The Beatles, is set to release a new country album titled 'Look Up.' This album, a collaboration with T Bone Burnett, showcases Starr's long-standing affinity for country music, which has been a part of his musical repertoire since his early days in the industry.
Starr, who has always had a soft spot for country music, cites artists like Hank Williams and Kitty Wells as his favorites. Growing up in Liverpool, he was exposed to a variety of musical genres due to the city's status as a port. This exposure laid the foundation for his eclectic taste in music, which includes blues, swing, and of course, country.
His journey into country music began during his time with The Beatles, where he sang country-influenced tracks like 'Act Naturally' and 'What Goes On.' Starr's solo endeavors also saw him delving into the country genre, with his 1971 album 'Beaucoups of Blues' being a notable example.
The collaboration with T Bone Burnett on 'Look Up' marks a significant moment in Starr's career. Burnett, known for his work in classic country and Americana, brought his expertise to the project, crafting nine songs for the album. The record also features contributions from young country artists like Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle.
One of the standout tracks on the album is 'Thankful,' a song co-written by Starr and Bruce Sugar, featuring vocals from Alison Krauss. Starr's signature phrase, 'peace and love,' makes a subtle appearance in the song, adding a personal touch to the country sound.
'Look Up' is set to be released in January, coinciding with a resurgence of country music in the industry. Starr's upcoming performances at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium promise to be a blend of classic hits and country renditions, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
With 'Look Up,' Ringo Starr continues to explore new musical horizons while staying true to his roots in country music, solidifying his status as a timeless icon in the industry.
