Ringo Starr's musical journey in the 1980s and 1990s was a rollercoaster ride, marked by both highs and lows. While his time as a solo artist in the 70s was a triumph, the 80s presented a different challenge. Starr's struggle to secure a release for his album 'Old Wave' and his battle with substance abuse issues cast a shadow over his career. However, his resilience and determination to reclaim his place in the music industry are truly inspiring. In this article, I will delve into the story of Starr's comeback, the challenges he faced, and the impact of his album 'Time Takes Time' in 1992. I will also explore the broader implications of his journey and the lessons it holds for artists and fans alike.
A Starr Slump
In the 70s, Ringo Starr was a force to be reckoned with as a solo artist. His songs like 'It Don't Come Easy' and 'Photograph' showcased his effortless transition to being the guy out in front. However, his success was largely dependent on outside material, as he was limited as a songwriter. This reliance on external material, even with the help of his fellow Beatles, led to a decline in his commercial success. His 1981 album 'Stop And Smell The Roses' failed to sell much, and his record label dropped him.
The situation only got worse for Starr in the 80s. He recorded an album titled 'Old Wave' with Joe Walsh as producer, but he couldn't secure a release for it in either the UK or the US. As his musical fortunes faded, his substance abuse issues intensified, and by the mid-80s, it was fair to wonder if he'd ever again release a winning LP.
Completing the Comeback
Starr started to build himself back up after a stint in rehab to clean up his drinking and drug use. He began to make copious public appearances, and the creation of his All-Star Band in 1989 proved successful. A return to the studio would be the final step in reclaiming his career.
However, even that proved rocky. 1987 sessions in Memphis with legendary producer Chips Moman proved fruitless, even though Moman tried to release the music recorded during that time. Starr shook that off and moved forward again. This time around, he rode the wave of all-star comeback albums that were all the rage in the late 80s and early 90s. Starr enjoyed the cream of the crop of producers, with Jeff Lynne, Peter Asher, Don Was, and Phil Ramone all helming tracks. The Who's Who of musicians surrounding him included Benmont Tench, Brian Wilson, and Harry Nilsson.
Ringo 'Time'
Starr introduced 'Time Takes Time' to the world with 'Weight Of The World'. The single, produced by Was, featured a sound that hearkened back to the psychedelic 60s, even as the lyrics warned about getting bogged down in the past. Despite a huge promotional push and a promising lead single, 'Time Takes Time' failed to do the business that Starr had hoped. Perhaps the timing was off. Released in 1992, Starr's upbeat pop didn't exactly jibe with the downcast grunge vibes dominating the rock airwaves.
Nonetheless, the album earned Starr some of the best reviews since his 70s heyday. And, befitting an album called 'Time Takes Time', the music on it has aged quite well. It certainly gave Starr momentum to continue a solo career that is still going strong to this day.
Personal Perspective
In my opinion, Ringo Starr's journey in the 80s and 90s is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he was able to reclaim his place in the music industry and continue his solo career. His album 'Time Takes Time' is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a brighter future.
One thing that immediately stands out is the impact of his all-star comeback albums. The cream of the crop of producers and musicians surrounding him played a crucial role in his comeback. This raises a deeper question: How can artists and producers collaborate to create music that resonates with audiences and helps artists reclaim their place in the industry?
A detail that I find especially interesting is the contrast between Starr's upbeat pop and the downcast grunge vibes dominating the rock airwaves in the 90s. This suggests that there is always a place for music that is both uplifting and thought-provoking. It also raises the question: How can artists create music that is both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling?
What this really suggests is that the music industry is a complex and dynamic landscape, where artists must navigate a variety of challenges to succeed. It also highlights the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Personally, I think that Starr's journey is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.
