Ringo Starr Finds New Inspiration in Nashville for Second Country Album

The Beatles legend teams up again with producer T Bone Burnett for 'Long Long Road', featuring collaborations with Molly Tuttle, Billy Strings, and more.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:20pm

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring a dramatic, high-contrast composition of shimmering sequins and glittering disco ball fragments, conceptually representing the celebratory energy of Ringo Starr's musical legacy.Ringo Starr's enduring musical spirit shines through in the glittering textures of his new country-influenced album 'Long Long Road'.New Orleans Today

At 85 years old, Ringo Starr is showing no signs of slowing down, as he prepares to release his second country album 'Long Long Road.' The album, produced by T Bone Burnett, features collaborations with a new generation of country artists like Molly Tuttle and Billy Strings, as well as stars like Sheryl Crow and St. Vincent. Ringo says the warm welcome he received in Nashville inspired him to keep exploring the genre he's loved since his early days in Liverpool.

Why it matters

Ringo's embrace of country music represents a full-circle moment, as the Beatles were deeply influenced by American roots sounds. His new album 'Long Long Road' continues Ringo's 'Nashville Renaissance,' showcasing his enduring creative spirit and ability to connect with younger artists, decades after the Fab Four first conquered the world.

The details

For 'Long Long Road,' Ringo reunited with producer T Bone Burnett, who he previously worked with on 2022's 'Look Up.' The new album features six songs written by Burnett, as well as three originals by Ringo. It also includes a cover of the Carl Perkins classic 'I Don't See Me in Your Eyes Anymore,' tying back to Ringo's early days when the first two songs he recorded with the Beatles were Perkins covers.

  • Ringo made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry in 2025, performing 'Act Naturally' at the invitation of Emmylou Harris.
  • 'Long Long Road' is set for release on April 24, 2026.

The players

Ringo Starr

An 85-year-old English musician and former member of the Beatles, known for his distinctive drumming style and charming persona.

T Bone Burnett

An American musician, songwriter, and record producer who has collaborated with Ringo Starr on his recent country-influenced albums.

Molly Tuttle

A young American bluegrass and Americana singer-songwriter who has contributed vocals to Ringo's new album.

Billy Strings

A rising star in the country and bluegrass music scene, who has also lent his talents to Ringo's 'Long Long Road.'

Carl Perkins

A pioneering American rockabilly musician whose song 'I Don't See Me in Your Eyes Anymore' is covered by Ringo on the new album.

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What they’re saying

“It's tremendous fun to write for his voice, for his spirit. He's one of the most recognizable voices in the world, so his voice is in your head with every word you write. It becomes very easy. It's like guide rails that you can just chase, to follow down a path.”

— T Bone Burnett, Producer

“Look, the Beatles, if they came out today, would be called an Americana band. All the way through, George Harrison played a Chet Atkins Country Gentleman guitar, and he played Carl Perkins-style finger-picking, which all goes back to Arnold Schultz, who taught Bill Monroe.”

— T Bone Burnett, Producer

What’s next

Ringo will embark on a tour with his All-Starr Band in support of 'Long Long Road' later this year.

The takeaway

At 85 years old, Ringo Starr continues to defy expectations, embracing his country music roots and collaborating with a new generation of artists to create fresh, vibrant work. His enduring passion and creative spirit serve as an inspiration to music fans of all ages.