At 71 years young, mega pop icon Ringo Starr continues to do what he enjoys most with his 17th studio album, Ringo 2012.
Starr is not trying to blow his audience away with deep, passionate lyrics or intricate melodies. Rather, he takes the simple approach to making his music, which makes it easy and fun to listen to. He also enlists the talents of other prolific rock stars to contribute their talents, such as Joe Walsh from the Eagles, Benmont Tench from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and David Starr from Eurythmics. The album includes classic Ringo with remakes of “Wings” and “Step Lightly,” both popular tracks of his that were originally released in the 1970s, along with a rendition of Buddy Holly’s “Think It Over,” and five brand new tracks that were written and produced by the rock drummer himself. The title of the album insists that even though the year is 2012, his music remains the same. The transformation that the music scene has undergone since his popularity began to rise has not altered his style at all.
Starr reminds the listeners a little of his old partner, John Lennon, when he sings of peace and understanding in the opening track “Anthem.” He also attempts to branch out from pop rock in “Samba,” a track that really shows Starr’s talents as not just a drummer, but also a musician. His nostalgia shows through in an ode to the birthplace of himself and his career in “In Liverpool.” His final track “Slow Down” remind the listener of the days of Sergeant Pepper and the Lonely Hearts Band with its style and Starr’s easily identifiable voice.
Starr’s newest release may not be groundbreaking or revolutionary like his former superstar pop band, but it allows him to continue making his own music and sharing it with his most beloved fans. The style and fluidity of his tracks makes them seem as if they could have been released at any point in this career and still be enjoyed. It also showcases Starr’s talents as a drummer, vocalist and keyboard player. His message is simple and effective. There are very few, if any, artists that can claim they have made near 20 albums of music that they can be proud of, but Ringo Starr can make that claim. His message since he began his solo career is simple and effective: Do what you love to do and you will never tire of it.