Full Breakdown
Ringo Starr Announces New Album "Long Long Road"
3/5/2026, 11:16:12 AM
Overview of the New Album
Sir Ringo Starr, the renowned drummer of The Beatles, has announced his upcoming 22nd solo studio album titled *Long Long Road*, set for release on April 24, 2026. The album features ten tracks and includes collaborations with notable artists such as Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings, and St. Vincent. The first single, "It’s Been Too Long," showcases guest appearances from Sarah Jarosz and Molly Tuttle and was co-written with producer T Bone Burnett.
Creative Partnership with T Bone Burnett
This album marks Starr's second collaboration with T Bone Burnett, following the success of his 2025 album *Look Up*, which achieved his first number one on the UK Official Country Chart. Starr expressed gratitude for Burnett's influence, stating, “I’m blessed to have T Bone in my life right now and working with me on these records.” He noted that the creative process for *Long Long Road* felt organic, saying, “After we did the last record, which I love listening to, this one just sort of happened.”
Musical Influences and Themes
*Long Long Road* continues to explore country and Americana sounds, building on the musical direction established in *Look Up*. The album features a broader range of influences, including a cover of Carl Perkins' song "I Don’t See Me In Your Eyes Anymore," which Starr recorded with The Beatles. He remarked on the significance of Perkins' music in his career, stating, “I recorded two Carl Perkins songs with The Beatles, and both T Bone and I wanted one on this record.”
Tracklist and Collaborations
The album's tracklist includes:
1. Returning Without Tears
3. I Don’t See Me in Your Eyes Anymore
4. It’s Been Too Long
6. You and I (Wave of Love)
7. My Baby Don’t Want Nothing
9. She’s Gone
10. Long Long Road
The recording sessions took place in Nashville and Los Angeles, reuniting a core band referred to by Burnett as “The Texans,” which includes musicians like Paul Franklin and Dennis Crouch.
Praise from T Bone Burnett
Burnett praised Starr's artistry, stating, “I’ve loved Ringo’s playing and his singing for my whole life.” He described his songwriting process for Starr as inspired by their shared experiences, including a poetry reading that led to the creation of a “Gene Autry type song,” reflecting Starr's Texas musical influences.
Conclusion
As the oldest surviving member of The Beatles, Ringo Starr continues to demonstrate a remarkable vitality in his music career, maintaining an active presence through touring and recording. With *Long Long Road*, he deepens his exploration of American roots music while celebrating his enduring journey in the music industry. The album is poised to further solidify his legacy, which extends beyond his iconic role in The Beatles.
