Ringo Starr's musical journey in the 1980s and 1990s was a rollercoaster ride, filled with both highs and lows. While it's easy to remember his iconic status as a Beatle, the story of his solo career during this period is a fascinating one, marked by personal struggles, creative challenges, and a remarkable comeback. In this article, I'll delve into the factors that led to Starr's slump, his eventual resurgence, and the significance of his 1992 album, Time Takes Time.
A Starr Slump
Ringo Starr's solo career in the 1970s was a testament to his versatility and talent. Songs like "It Don't Come Easy" and "Photograph" showcased his ability to transition seamlessly from the Beatles to a successful solo artist. However, his reliance on outside material, coupled with his limited songwriting skills, eventually caught up with him. The 1981 album Stop and Smell the Roses failed to sell well, and his record label dropped him. The subsequent album, Old Wave, recorded with Joe Walsh as producer, couldn't secure a release in either the UK or the US. As his musical fortunes faded, so did his personal life, with substance abuse issues intensifying.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between Starr's solo success in the 70s and his struggles in the 80s. It raises a deeper question: Why did a former Beatle, who had seemingly conquered the music industry, face such challenges? In my opinion, the answer lies in the pressures of the music industry and the limitations of his songwriting. Starr's success in the 70s was built on a foundation of catchy, memorable songs, but as he ventured into the 80s, he struggled to keep up with the evolving musical landscape.
Completing the Comeback
Starr's comeback began with a stint in rehab to address his drinking and drug use. This marked a turning point in his life, allowing him to rebuild his career and personal life. He started making public appearances and formed the All-Star Band in 1989, which proved successful. However, the road to a new album was not without its bumps. Sessions in Memphis with legendary producer Chips Moman in 1987 proved fruitless, and even though Moman tried to release the music, it didn't happen. Starr's resilience and determination to move forward are truly inspiring.
One thing that immediately stands out is the role of producers in Starr's comeback. He rode the wave of all-star comeback albums that were all the rage in the late 80s and early 90s. Starr worked with some of the cream of the crop of producers, including Jeff Lynne, Peter Asher, Don Was, and Phil Ramone. This allowed him to create music that was both familiar and fresh, a perfect blend of his past and present.
Ringo 'Time'
Starr introduced Time Takes Time to the world with the single "Weight of the World." Produced by Don Was, the song featured a sound that hearkened back to the psychedelic 60s, even as the lyrics warned about getting bogged down in the past. The album itself earned Starr some of the best reviews since his 70s heyday, and the music has aged quite well. It certainly gave Starr momentum to continue a solo career that is still going strong to this day.
What many people don't realize is that Time Takes Time was released in 1992, a time when the grunge movement was dominating the rock airwaves. The album's upbeat pop sound didn't exactly jibe with the downcast grunge vibes. However, the album's success in terms of critical acclaim and its enduring legacy cannot be overlooked. It's a testament to Starr's artistic growth and his ability to create music that transcends time.
A Takeaway and Reflection
Ringo Starr's journey in the 1980s and 1990s is a reminder that even the most iconic artists face challenges and setbacks. His struggles with substance abuse, creative blocks, and the pressures of the music industry are relatable to many. However, his resilience, determination, and artistic growth are truly inspiring. Time Takes Time is not just an album; it's a testament to Starr's ability to overcome adversity and create music that resonates with audiences.
If you take a step back and think about it, Starr's comeback story is a powerful reminder that success is not always linear. It's a journey filled with ups and downs, and sometimes, it takes a slump to find the strength to rise again. From my perspective, Starr's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and artistic growth, and it continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
