Ringo Starr’s Country Music Celebration at the Ryman Auditorium
Though primarily known for his role as the drummer of The Beatles, Ringo Starr has expressed a deep appreciation for country music throughout his career. This passion will be showcased in a televised concert special titled “Ringo & Friends at the Ryman,” featuring country music legends like Emmylou Harris and Sheryl Crow. The event is set to air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ on March 10 at 8 p.m. ET.
A Deep-rooted Affection for Country Music
In a recent interview with CBS News senior culture correspondent Anthony Mason, Starr revealed that his affinity for country music dates back to his teenage years, when he admired artists like Hank Williams. He noted, “When I was a teenager… the name of the game was to get here,” referring to Nashville, the heart of country music.
New Album and Concert
Starr’s love for the genre culminated in his recent project, a country music album titled “Look Up,” produced by T Bone Burnett. The album release was celebrated with a two-night concert event at the historic Ryman Auditorium, where Starr remarked, “It was two nights of peace, love and country music.”
Collaboration with T Bone Burnett
Burnett, who has collaborated with Starr on this project, shared that the idea of a country collaboration emerged during their meeting in Los Angeles. He was intrigued, especially knowing Starr’s childhood dream of becoming a cowboy singer. This partnership yielded the album’s lead track, “Time On My Hands,” inspired by Gene Autry, which set the tone for the entire album released in January.
Cultural Impact and Personal Connection
Starr’s inclination toward country music has been evident even in The Beatles’ catalog. His rendition of Carl Perkins’ classic “Honey Don’t” was one of his initial lead vocal performances with the band. Additionally, he penned the country-rock song “Don’t Pass Me By” for their iconic 1968 “White Album.”
Reflecting on his role within the band, Starr acknowledged, “I mean, from the beginning you were kind of the country guy in The Beatles really.” Mason confirmed this sentiment, highlighting Starr’s unique contribution to the band’s diverse sound.
Special Guests at the Ryman
During the concert at the Ryman, Starr was joined by notable guests including Jack White, who covered “Don’t Pass Me By,” and Molly Tuttle, who contributed to Starr’s new album. Tuttle expressed her commitment to delivering a memorable performance, stating, “I don’t know when I’ve worked on, like practiced something more. I was like I have to do a good job.”
Additionally, Billy Strings, another artist who performed with Starr, noted the honor of playing alongside a musician he has long admired since childhood. Sheryl Crow also delighted the audience with her presence, remarking on the surreal experience of performing with someone she grew up listening to.
A Nostalgic Experience
For Crow, performing at the Ryman alongside Starr evoked a sense of nostalgia as she recalled the thrill of working with a musical icon. She humorously mentioned, “It is never lost on me,” emphasizing the significance of the occasion.
Through this special concert, Ringo Starr not only celebrates his passion for country music but also bridges generations of musical talent, reinforcing the idea that genres can blend and evolve while paying homage to their roots.
