Legendary Beatles member Ringo Starr recently shared his emotions regarding the band’s recent Grammy win, a remarkable achievement 55 years after they disbanded. The Beatles, known for their groundbreaking impact on the music industry, secured a Grammy Award for best rock performance for the song “Now and Then.” This track, originally a demo recorded by the late John Lennon, was revitalised by Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology.
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Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Ringo Starr, now 84 years old, expressed his surprise and joy at winning the prestigious award. Reflecting on the win, he felt a strong connection to his former bandmate Lennon, stating that “It just felt like John was with us.” The track “Now and Then” triumphed over entries from top artists such as The Black Keys, Green Day, and Pearl Jam, showcasing the enduring influence and appeal of The Beatles’ music.
The origins of “Now and Then” trace back to a ballad penned and recorded by John Lennon in the late 1970s. Despite having only a demo version, the song remained unfinished until Yoko Ono shared it with Starr, McCartney, and George Harrison during their work on the Beatles Anthology project in 1994. While initial efforts to finalise the song fell short due to audio quality issues, director Peter Jackson’s innovative use of technology enabled the resurrection of Lennon’s vocals from the demo.
With Lennon’s voice restored, Starr and McCartney collaborated to complete the song, with Starr adding a fresh drum accompaniment to Harrison’s guitar recording from 1995. The release of “Now and Then” in November 2023 marked a significant moment for fans, hailed as “the last Beatles song” and a fitting tribute to the band’s enduring legacy.
Aside from this momentous achievement, Ringo Starr continues his musical journey with the release of his album “Look Up” in January. This marks his second venture into country music since the 1970 release of “Beaucoups of Blues.” To celebrate the album, he performed at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium in a star-studded event, which is now available for streaming on Paramount+ under the title “Ringo & Friends at the Ryman.”
During the concert, Starr showcased a mix of new material and classic Beatles hits, emphasising the timeless quality of their music. Reflecting on his experience, he highlighted the dedication and emotional depth poured into their songs, noting how they still resonate with audiences today. Ringo Starr’s unwavering passion for music and his iconic contributions to the industry continue to inspire generations of fans around the world.
For more insights into Ringo Starr’s remarkable career and recent ventures, be sure to grab the latest issue of PEOPLE, hitting newsstands this Friday. Stay tuned for updates on this musical icon’s everlasting impact on the world of music.
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