Ringo Starr Talks Pizza, Country Music, Barry Keoghan and Being Sir Richard in New Interviews

Ringo Starr has spoken candidly about his approach to music-making, revealing that he made “all my mistakes on stage” during a recent interview with the BBC. The former Beatles drummer, now 85, shared this reflection while discussing his new country album, Long Long Road, and his preference for collaborative music-making over solitary practice.

Starr explained that before joining The Beatles, he used to practice drums alone as a child, which led to complaints from neighbours who would yell at him to “shut up.” He believes this early experience of playing in isolation contributed to his development as a musician, stating, “I think that’s what did it.” Now, he advises his grandchildren against practising music alone, encouraging them instead to “get together and join a band.”

The musician emphasized that he never plays music alone, not even for practice, saying, “That’s how I did it. I made all my mistakes on stage.” This philosophy underscores his belief in learning through live performance and interaction with other musicians.

During the interview, Starr also addressed the topic of his knighthood. Although he was knighted in 2018 for his services to music, he clarified that it is technically incorrect to call him “Sir Ringo” because his given name is Richard. He prefers to be called simply “Ringo,” noting that he is “Sir Richard” formally but does not worry about titles or formalities.

Starr’s new album, Long Long Road, marks his foray into country music and features collaborations with artists such as Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings, and St Vincent. He described the record as having more of a Nashville sound than a Los Angeles one, despite having lived in LA since the 1970s. He said he loves the “LA attitude” and appreciates the heat and light of Southern California, which he feels has been a good environment for him creatively.

The album’s release follows Starr’s debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, where he was pictured alongside musician Molly Tuttle. He has expressed enthusiasm for engaging with the country music scene and values the collaborative spirit it embodies.

Throughout the conversation, Starr maintained his characteristic warmth and humility, often signing off with his well-known phrase, “peace and love.” He comes across as energetic and youthful in demeanor, which he attributes partly to his long-standing connection with Los Angeles and its vibrant cultural atmosphere.