I was 21 when this album came out. It was, at that point, the closest we would ever get to a new Beatle album. I love the record front to back. To me it sounds like a beatles album. Then around 2015 I saw Ringo's Alstars. I'm a life-long Beatle fan.
I was 12 in 73 in the US. My parents were very strict, traditional Irish immigrants. They were no fans of the Beatles or any rock music. I finally got my mother to purchase the Beatles blue album that year for my birthday, a major concession. The Ringo album was all over the record stores later that year. I didnt have the allowance $$ to buy the Ringo album, but always listened for the singles playing on AM radio. Photograph will always be engrained in my consciousness from all that radio play.
I remember my mother was overjoyed when I was getting back into the Beatles in 1979 - after putting them aside for KISS, of all things. She asked me what I'd like for my 16th birthday and I just said "a Beatles album" - any of them, it's WIN-WIN no matter the title.
Terry Tutor here- I agree with you Matt....I believe George was giving Ringo better songs than he was keeping for his own records....And I always enjoy John and John's channel...Peace and Love, Terry Tutor
1973 was the greatest post-split year for us Beatles people. All of the Fabs released superb albums, despite the fact that the critics reviews weren't ecstatic. "Mind Games" is vastly under-rated. "Living In The Material World" is one of my favourite George albums. "Red Rose Speedway" was an encouraging portent of the majestic "Band On The Run" masterpiece, without even counting Macca's excellent non-album (UK) single of that same year (Helen Wheels/ Country Dreamer). And then, almost miraculously, Ringo astounded us all with an album of the highest quality which produced a couple of massive hit singles as well as some classic album tracks, not the least of which is "I'm The Greatest", an absolutely perfect track in every way. It was an inspired decision by John to give this song to Ringo. Edit to add: AND we got the Red and Blue compilation albums as well. What a year! Bring back 1973!!!
I hadn't listened to this LP in decades, but it's clearly Ringo's best. I think the book on the fabs solo video is is a great idea and will look forward to it. :- ) A supplemental video compilation would be ideal, but most likely too $$ involved, but Apple should consider it. Thanks Matt and John.
@@robertzastrow4648 well since you want to get fussy (I mentioned those albums in particular because the hosts seem to dismiss everything after the 1973 album), I have Y Not, Ringo 2012, What's My Name, Zoom In and the two recent 10 inch EP's. I think Ringo is making music because it's what he does, he enjoys working in the studio, I don't think he's under any illusion that he's gonna sell millions of records or be "cutting edge".
@@ronfowlermusic I brought it up because it's just factually wrong to call a number of old records/CDs "recent". Don't think that's being fussy. Also think that John and Matt were too dismissive of Ringo's work after 1973. Have a number of Ringo's solo albums/CDs from across the years, and have likes/dislikes about each one. Personally, I don't agree with his decision to stop releasing complete/full CDs, now only releasing 4 song expensive EPs, and also his refusal to continue giving people autographs. I know he has his reasons for his decisions. I don't have to agree with his reasons, however. ALSO, am not interested in your reasons for either defending or rationalizing what he does, acting more like his Manager than a fan of his work.
9:43 it's on the Lennon boxed set from 2000. They run thru it multiple times....my favorite is when John sings "and you know what they told me.....your great"....sarcastically spoken.
When people ask me my biggest influences I always say 1) The Beatles and 2) The Early 70s solo work of Mr. Ringo Starr. I got into music later in life and I wasn't technically very good and do funny songs. This album really helped bring back the element that somewhat got lost in the breakup: just plain fun. I love John's solo music yet I think this Ringo album is the most "Beatles" sounding album of all their solo work, perhaps only "Band On The Run" Being the only album out by this time. One of the great tragedies of the breakup is how it separated all of them (save Paul) from George Martin, even the "reunion" single of FREE AS A BIRD didn't really have the production sound of the Beatles to me, and so much of the solo stuff just wasn't as well produced as the group stuff. This album also brought back something NONE of their solo work did (aside from the Traveling Wilberys) the feeling of a musical community, which was so much a part of their success. I actually like all of the songs on the album myself (aside from the tacked-on B-Side Down and Out which seems pointless to me) Even It's Don't Come Easy and the B-Side Early 1970 add so much to the album. So far all these reasons, this remains, for me, my favorite post-breakup album (aside from maybe Band On The Run) When I saw him play two weeks ago he did Back Off Boogaloo and it got a very muted response from the crowd (many of whom seemed to know his other solo songs) and I wonder if it's become somewhat forgotten despite being a hit because it wasn't on this album. I agree that so much of his remaining work is forgettable, though I do wish he had included "Grow Old With Me" and a song he wrote a few years ago where he goes "What's My Name.. RINGO" in his concert, both of these would be crowd-pleasers. I love the All Starr Band concert as I've been to thousands of open mikes and it reminds me of them and brings back again the community feeling of the Beatles. I would love, however, to see him do a complete Ringo song show. He would have about an hour of hits and could fill the rest in with his lesser know stuff, mainly from this album.
Funny thing is, inside The Beatles, Ringo was sometimes the best singer out of the 4. Each of them had a different Scouse accent, and his nasal twang reaching plaintively for an upper range is perfect for With a Little Help' and the exact sweet sound of boyhood leaving Liverpool in 'Yellow Submarine' that Lennon only makes macabre in his early REVOLVER sessions. Lennon and the rest are too sophisticated to fake naivety in 1966. Ringo's sound *depends* on naivety. Reading Ray Coleman's wobbly old Lennon bio (believe all interviewees...believe all interviewees...) Cynthia remembers JL's make-believe haze about his father around 1959 that really ties in with Lennon's 'Yellow Submarine' demo lyrics that morphed from "In the town where I come from, no one cares, no one cares" to "lived a man who sailed to sea": "His father was a taboo subject: John had this vision, which he gave to Cynthia, of a great seafaring man, with a wonderful singing voice, 'a hero in the distance,' whom he could not see because he had to go away for important work at sea." But he needed Ringo to sell that naive fantasy.
Great conversation. I always enjoyed this album, definitely one of his best. He did face a decline after this and while Goodnight Vienna did okay, his 1976 follow up did not and it’s been a downward spiral ever since. He has put out some quality work in the 1990s and the collaborations with Mark Hudson are worthwhile. I think you hit it on the head with the fact that his recording career was seen as a novelty by many record buyers and many didn’t see the need to keep buying another Ringo album which is unfortunate because there is some worthy material buried in these albums. Thanks for posting!
Hey Matt, another very enjoyable collaboration between you & John, keep ‘em coming! You raised a very good point about more possible collaborative efforts between Ringo & George. We get a nice glimpse in the Let It Be/ Get Back films when they worked on O. G. The booklet with the Voorman illustrations is great, & your right, the US orig. copy does not have the staples. I’ve got a well preserved copy here. I still enjoy this album, one can imagine the party it was having all his friends around him recording it!😄🎶
Pretty fair and fun assessment of the album...I got it for Christmas when it came out in '73.....I always enjoy these videos....keep 'em coming...when you can, of course...haha (John Fallon)
I think the song Paul wrote for Ringo was a message to Ringo. It was a public apology to Ringo in the guise of a love song. Paul was good at sending messages to the other Beatles in the form of a song.
Ringo, Band on The Run, and Walls and Bridges: A good Beatle run in 73-74. Dark Horse was hoarse. I was a junior in high school and my thinking was They'll get back together soon. But oh, no.
I believe it was 1989 when I saw him in Pori Jazz in Finland. I think it was the start of his All Star line. Did'n do anything to me that concert but I bought White Album on that trip and that was my kind of music. Wow!
Love six o’ clock … really enjoying your guys reviews. Don’t forget the great lines in I’m the greatest..yes my name is Billy Shears …just a little help from my friends!
Speaking of Heaton's mention of Ringo's 1970s music videos, does anyone remember Ringo's appearance in the US on the Phil Donahue show to promote his made-for-television comedy film? I was in 4th grade when the Donahue appearance was broadcast on daytime TV, watched the entire thing.
You mentioned the Shaving Cream song. "Shaving cream; be nice and clean. Shave every day and you'll always look keen." The band Chicago even had what could be called a novelty song: "America Needs You, Harry Truman." Ray Stevens' "The Streak" hit #1. "The Night Chicago Died," by Paper Lace. "The No-No Song." All within about the same year.
When you were talking about oh my my you said none of the other Beatles had matched Ringo’s chart success at this point. However, at that point Ringo had 2 no. 1 singles 3 top 10 singles 0 no. 1 albums Paul had 2 no. 1 songs 5 top 10 songs 2 no. 1 albums Even George and John had no.1 albums and George had 2 no. 1 songs but less top 10 So it was actually Paul Ringo George John For singles And Paul/George John Ringo for albums
lee sanna Recently saw a photo posted on Quora, of Ringo with John during John's Plastic Ono Band album sessions. They're both sitting next to each other, talking and smiling. Didn't know any photos of the two together during this time had been taken. Was nice to see the photo.
I have to admit to being a serious nullity when it comes to a lot of this music...I frankly did not like so much of it. As a teen in the mid 70s Frampton and Boston had much more appeal than the vapidity of Harrison, Starr, and Lennon. I still don't like a lot of it. However...I really like listening to intelligent discussions about the music. For whatever reason I would prefer to hear it discussed than the actual music. It is for this reason that I VERY much appreciate Matt's programs. He does an excellent job bringing this era to life. Great discussion Matt. Thank you for these!
I don't really get what motivated Ringo to continue. He is so chill that he seems uninterested. I guess the money is still good. It isn't like Paul who seems to really love creating music and playing concerts.
Maybe it's money and camaraderie of fellow musicians and they probably want to help him and vice versa. I mean when he plays he enjoys and has good time with friends, so why not have the business going on and keep the Beatles legacy alive a bit.
Great collaboration you guys. Nice review on Ringo’s best album. The album still sounds good to this day. Photograph (GH song seriously) still sounds so fresh and beautiful. Looking forward to more reviews from the two of you together!
I would love to see the both of you guys do a review of Walls and Bridges. It would make for an interesting video of you both being on polar opposite spectrums of the album. Considering how John Heaton ranks it highly (rightly so), I will most likely be more in lockstep with him. The back-and-forth dialogue would certainly lend itself for debate.
Like many, I believe that the '73 Ringo album is his best solo album. Agree that there are at least a few references to the Sergeant Pepper album, not only with the front cover painting showing everyone appearing on the album, on a stage, but also John's lyric from "I'm The Greatest" ("Yes, my name is Billy Shears. . ."). Both the front and back cover paintings are credited to a Tim Bruckner (from the CD sleeve booklet). Think the songs flow well together. Matt, I like "Oh, My My" and think it's a funky little tune! Agree that "You And Me (Babe) is a good closer for the album. The album is the closest we ever got to having the Beatles reunite. Matt, like your idea that Ringo and George should have tried writing more together, or Ringo could have tried to develop more his acting career. Another person I think he could have done more with was Marc Bolan of T. Rex, who he was friends with, and who Ringo did a documentary on about this time, which he directed. Think it's called Back The Boogie (Don't quote me on that, though!). Matt, you also forgot to mention the Tony Orlando & Dawn variety series, when you listed for John 1970s American Variety Shows. In 1978, Ringo did do the "Ognir Ratts" television special on NBC (a take off of The Prince & The Pauper, which George made a cameo appearance in). Not getting too down on you, though, because both you and John did a very good review of a very good Ringo album!
I always loved this album and played it a lot in 1973, I always thought one of the best things about the album was the sketches by Klaus Voorman, an excellent artist.
there ain't no one that delivers like Pop Goes the Sixties. You, Matt, find water in a well that is so frequently visited. THE RINGO lp is his peak, and he learned that inviting guests worked. Still does it. You offered deep insight into what might have been if more collaboration has been done. Shame in so many ways. Sincerity, and insight is the key to why i always love your work.
I never bought "Old Wave", "Ringo's Rotogravure", "Bad Boy" or "Ringo the 4th" but I have the "Starr Struck: Best of Ringo Starr, Vol. 2" album which has songs from those and others. He didn't do a lot of extracurricular drumming but in 1984 he did appear in Paul's "Give My Regards to Broad Street" which was not a career enhancer.
PS: I saw the RINGO all star band , first tour 1989 in L.A. Greek Theater…Joe Walsh, Billy Preston, Dr. John, Rick Danko, Levon Helm, Nils Logren , Clarence Clemons …Jim Keltner …and it worked! Entertainment at its best.
I love these reviews of The Beatles and the solo Beatle stuff. I feel very fortunate to have grown up with the Beatles in real time. I saw them the first night on Ed Sullivan when I was 10 years old and it changed my life. I had always thought the song "Photograph" was written about Patti Harrison.
I'm always a fan of this album and its overall cheerful mood. Never liked, "Oh My My," either Matt. I wonder if one has to be a Beatles Fan to love this album!! John I really enjoy your"defenses," as you are a fan like me. I enjoys both of your insights.
Pretty spot on takes on a very good album. My thoughts are more in line with yours Matt. . John is a little more charitable than I would be. Ringo must have a very effective handshake 😊 That hour and twenty flew by. Thanks for an entertaining discussion. Cheers, RNB
I noticed when Professor Heaton is asked to talk about the book he is jointly working on, he subtly employs an old passive-aggressive Macca trick involving his middle-finger; naughty Professor, naugh-TEE…
Mal supposedly contributed to 'Fixing a Hole' and Paul first told him he'd get a song-writing credit, but later backed off saying something to the effect of "We have to preserve this Lennon-McCartney thing". He also *inspired*, but did not come up with, the Sgt. Pepper idea because he and Paul were on a plane back from a safari in Africa and he asked Paul to pass the "salt and pepper" and Paul thought he'd said "Sgt. Pepper". These stories combined to create a bunch of "Mal was central to the whole Sgt. Pepper album but was killed before his auto-biography could come out in the 70's to expose it all" rumors. Cheers on another great video, gents.
At the time prior to release- the rumors were " It's a Beatles Reunion Album". George wr/co-wrote 3 songs and John and Paul contribute a song each. They all weren't in the studio or country at the same time. Was told the cassette version of " Six O'clock" is a little different than the LP. Regardless, I played the album alot. Also the non- LP flipside " I'm Down and Out" available on the CD. Lol- during the song Ringo mentions " Gary"(Brooker) not " Harry" ( HARRISON 's nickname among his circle.)
I bought that album when it came out and I still love that album. My next favorite Ringo album would be Vertical Man. I don't think that album gets the attention it deserves. The All Starr Band that you were referring to Matt was the first All Starr Band in 1989. I just saw the All Starr Band in Vegas a little over a week and I thought it was very good. Im not expecting to go see, say a Peter Gabriel type concert. Since 1989, I've seen the All Starr Band I think six times. Each time I understand from the beginning what I am going to see. That's why I've only seen six😊. The whole concept of the All Starr Band is that the artist has to have at least two number one singles in his or her career tobe a part of the band, so that's pretty much you will hear. Like you, Matt, I wish Ringo would change it up a bit, or at least add a few more of his songs. I think La Di Da would be a great closer. He could have the whole audience singing that song as he leaves the stage. But Ringo refuses to explore his own catalog. I think he is happy playing drums behind everyone else. As far as the movie Caveman is concerned; I saw that in the theater when it first came out in 1981 and I remember the whole theater audience laughing together at times. Yes, its a silly film, but it's not supposed to be taken seriously. I bought it on DVD years ago and finally watched it not so long ago. Yes, it's a little dated, but I still laughed my butt off. One more thing, Paul did show off his talent for playing the bass in 1976. When Silly Love Songs was released, I did not like it. In fact as a Beatle/ ex-Beatle fan I was embarrassed by it. But as the years have passed, although not one of my favorites, I am now OK with it. Why? Because of the phenomenal bass playing. It's incredible. Also if you Listen to the Wings Over America album, you can tell that Paul is letting everyone know that he is the bass player. That annoys me, especially on songs like Call Me Back Again where his bass overshadows Jimmy McCulloch lead guitar. Anyways great video as always!
I bought "Ringo " when it first came out in 73 was 21 years old. Then I bought "Goodnight Vienna " the following year. I enjoyed both albums but for whatever reason I lost track of his music until 2003 when I bought "Ringorama" which is also one of his best. I since then have bought most of his current discography but never did go back and get his 80s albums.
Rod Stewart started his Great American Songbook series in 2002. Prior to that, Bryan Ferry released an excellent album of standards ("As Time Goes By") in 1999. Carly Simon's "Torch" album of standards came out in 1981, "My Romance", another album of standards, was released in 1990. There may well be others but those are the examples which spring to my mind right now. Roderick wasn't trailing a new path. He was following others who had made very good albums of music from before their era. Rod's albums were not bad though. At least he took the trouble to present the less well-known intros to many of the familiar tunes and for that alone I give him credit.
Very enjoyable head to head not only about this album but Ringo Starr's solo career overall. Never really heard it put so nicely in perspective I think. Also the "what could've been" speculation for Ringo's career was interesting. A bit disconcerting to get the finger from John Heaton so many times but other than that it was very entertaining... 😅 I kid, I'm sure it was a sly tribute to Don Stevenson on Moby Grape's first album cover. I imagine the discussions may get a bit more heated when we get to early Wings stuff. At least Matt prepared us somewhat. I'll say it here and now though: I really like Single Pigeon.
Matt, I was so happy finding this video this morning! It was as if you made it just for me. 😊 I was about 6 y.o. when I discovered the Beatles. Of the Fab Four, my favorite was Ringo! Here it is decades later, and my hubby just surprised me with tickets to see Ringo in concert! I have never seen a or all the Beatles in concert. Yes he's old but so now am I. I don't care if every note hits because I'm a bit hard of hearing. My mind will hear with the filter of nostalgia. Besides... it's Ringo!!
John recorded at least 4 or 5 demos of "I'm The Greatest", amending the lyrics with each one. Some of these you can find on UA-cam. While I'm not crazy about "Photograph" as a song, I like the imitation Phil Spector Wall of Sound treatment on the recording. I heard on a Beatles podcast recently that Spector's arranger was approached to help in the arrangement. The gentleman's name escapes me, though.
Great 2 to see you both again this time ringos finest Ringos self tittles album without it’s the best from ringo without doubt with all his fellow Beatles contributions great stuff got on its release to opened the door to possible reunion of the fab s it was well received
I watched your entire video and found it very interesting. It makes want to get the two books you and John were referring to: Revolution in the Head and Four Sides of the Circle. I saw Ringo and his All-Starr Band a few years ago and I enjoyed the show very much. A friend of mine told me once that he saw Ringo and his All-Starr Band back in the late '80s or early '90s. He told me John Entwistle was on bass. When it was John's turn to sing a couple of his tunes the band played "Boris the Spider" and the crowd looked puzzled, like "What is THIS???". My friend, however, loved it! I remember buying the RINGO album in the early-to-mid '70s and I had always enjoyed it. I remember hearing the three hits from that album on the radio in early 1974 when I was a senior in high school. The next thing I wanted to tell you is not "Ringo" related. Not too long ago I watched a video of a guy reviewing the early albums of The Mothers of Invention...just the Verve years. That would be a suggestion for an episode. Another suggestion would be to do an episode on The Monkees from 1966 to 1971. Take care, Matt, and congratulations to you for your wedding.
In '73, still trying to adjust to the new solo Beatles' sound, unlike the other Three's solo efforts up until that point, Ringo's album felt right immediately...
I wonder who the 'Two Bit Sax Player' Lennon was referring to in George's book 'I Me Mine', lol, perhaps it was just a metaphor,...did John use that same Two Bit Sax player on 'Whatever Gets You Through The Night'?
Possibly one of the best Beatles solo albums from beginning to end. Even though George, John and Paul wrote a couple songs, Ringo and his producer made it a tight album
FFS John sharp as a tack! 2 Lennon aficionados that either don"t own or have played the Lennon box set from 98. This is where you find the full band version of I'm the greatest, Matt may be correct in that it may have been on bootleg also. The lack of knowledge from enthusiasts is astounding but no surprise from dizzy John.
I think you can also put down the success of Ringo to the production by Richard Perry as was the case with Harry Nelson who had great success with the album Nilsson Schmilsson
Oh My My is clearly a tribute or nod at least to Marc Bolan who is on the second track. Lyrics like “boogie” and Born to Boogie, which Starr directed, and “slide.” T.Rex had The Slider out a year earlier, with Ringo falsely credited with taking the iconic shot for the album sleeve.
As parts get mixed and edited in and out, it can be hard with accuracy to keep track of who does and doesn't end up on the final tracks across an album.
Imo, this was not a Beatles reunion. Except for Photograph, the songwriting by the Beatles members are second-rate. Down and Out was probably the next best song and it wasn't even put on the album. Just like the Byrds reunion didn't have enough Rickenbacker, this 'Beatles reunion' had way too much Bobby Keys saxophone. That was the Dave Clark Five that used sax frequently, Ringo, not the Beatles. Unlike anything by the Beatles, it's never an album to go back to -- the humor doesn't work well twice over. I actually found Goodnight Vienna a mild improvement that dropped off with Rotogravure. His later Harrison collaboration 'Wrack My Brain' grates on the brain. So such a pairing may not have been so hot either. I love Ringo the guy, and don't even mind some of his later songs, but I believe you're correct: He should've stayed with the style of Beaucoup of Blues. 'No No Song' is probably his best subsequent song. I did like his Blast from the Past compilation, however. His singles weren't bad up to that time, except maybe for some of the songs from this album: Oh My My (typical 70s humor song, as you say) and You're Sixteen (Phil Ochs actually singled out this 45 as an example of how bad he thought 70s music became). And don't even get me started on the 'Ringo' album cover artwork. Terrible! -- except for the lithographs. What goes on about Vegas, should stay in Vegas! Overall, not a terrible album to listen to once, but it's terrible as a Beatles reunion. At no time were the Beatles in the same room together during the production other than pairing with Ringo himself. Rant over. Btw, 'Magic Christian' was a good Ringo film.
I just recently bought the CD. I had mostly compilation stuff from Ringo from his early solo years. The CD Version has the same packaging as the vynl, apparently. I am still looking for the vynl version for myself.
I was born in the 60's, huge Beatles fan. And aside from McCartney's 1st, Plastic Ono Band, Band On the Run, All Things Must Pass, and Double Fantasy; I know nothing of Beatle solo albums. Very interesting! Thanks fellas.
This album gets right up there for one of the best solo efforts by the Beatles. I think the reason this album gets all the buzz is the song "PHONOGRAPH", which Harrison co-wrote with Ringo on holiday, and Harrison recorded at the time he was doing Living in the Material World. I hear the Phil Spector from All Things Must Pass on the track. Maureen, Patty and Cilla Black were on hand, and I wonder what the song would have been like recorded by Cilla. The album came out at Christmas time. I was 15 and just loved it. I was a BIG Beatles fan (had bought a copy of Beaucoup des Blues at a Kmart as a deleted record). And this album had a great sound. I had a clean vinyl copy and it just played great. I'M THE GREATEST HAVE YOU SEEN MY BABY... I would have liked to have seen Randy Newman in study to guide the recording process. PHOTOGRAPH... Bobby Kees sax solo... SUNSHINE LIFE FOR ME... Looking back to Beaucoup des Blues-interesting idea. YOU'RE SIXTEEN ... There was a. revival of the 50s and early 60s going on. American Graffiti was ou that year. And this song just captured the mood. Looking back to Sentimental Journey-interesting idea. Nelson on backing vocals... 'Kazoo' (by Paul McCartney) 'mouth sax solo'. OH MY MY... A nice tapping toe song for Ringo. Don't love it, but I can listen to it. I can see it as a novelty song. STEP LIGHTLY SIX OCLOCK DEVIL WOMAN YOU AND ME BABE... Mal Evans writes a song with George.
A fine review, Matt and John. John, it was Bryan Ferry who did a Standards LP. True for the live shows. Pity about the rare performances of hidden jewels. I think it was Jagger who said, People want to hear the Greatest Hits. They paid for this type of show.
Ringo could change the lyric to "We're 16, you're beautiful and you're mine. I think the lyric is O.K. then and represents the original spirit of the song.
I always enjoy your conversations with John Heaton, and I hope that you guys will continue to do this on a regular basis. Since you discussed the questionable "Some Time in NYC," why not discuss a much better Lennon album? "Plastic Ono Band" and "Imagine" have been very much reviewed through the years, so how about a look at "Walls and Bridges"?
11:30 - Matt, it WAS called "Hold on" on early pressings. I don't know why it was changed to the other title. The pressing I have is unplayable, but I still have the cover and the booklet inside, so...KEEPERS/
I found out in 1973, age 10, that they'd broken up some time before. I didn't even know they were British til then, either😅. "I want To Thold Your Hand" sounded so American. A bit later, I started catching up on all their arguments, rows, etc. I asked my brother why they broke up and he said they were fighting, and I could not believe that. It was very sad to hear all that, but now, it's so long ago, you can even use their experience to help you cope in your life if you're having difficulty at work or in whichever circumstance.
28:20 - I love the pounding drums on Back off Boogaloo, but there's a great chorus "get yourself together now,......you know it just sounds wasted...." There are some good lyrics in it.
One of the overlooked features of this album is that Harrison co -wrote/ played on half of it. Five songs out of eleven (counting the B-side). A darn shame that the Harrison song weren't put out by Harrison because they are almost all better than what he put out in 1973-75. You also get a sense of what a great arranger Harrison was.
Ringo has a new secret project that's incredible, the guests are mind boggling. The content is pure Beatles genius. Producer Jack Douglas. It will be massive. The rights and contractual details are massive. I can't wait.
I was 21 when this album came out. It was, at that point, the closest we would ever get to a new Beatle album. I love the record front to back. To me it sounds like a beatles album. Then around 2015 I saw Ringo's Alstars. I'm a life-long Beatle fan.
I was 12 in 73 in the US. My parents were very strict, traditional Irish immigrants. They were no fans of the Beatles or any rock music. I finally got my mother to purchase the Beatles blue album that year for my birthday, a major concession. The Ringo album was all over the record stores later that year. I didnt have the allowance $$ to buy the Ringo album, but always listened for the singles playing on AM radio. Photograph will always be engrained in my consciousness from all that radio play.
I remember my mother was overjoyed when I was getting back into the Beatles in 1979 - after putting them aside for KISS, of all things. She asked me what I'd like for my 16th birthday and I just said "a Beatles album" - any of them, it's WIN-WIN no matter the title.
I love Caveman. I mean, falling in a poached dinosaur egg! Genius!
My first concert was Ringo and the allstar band in early 90's in Seattle. Was alot of fun. Enjoyed the video. Take care.
Terry Tutor here- I agree with you Matt....I believe George was giving Ringo better songs than he was keeping for his own records....And I always enjoy John and John's channel...Peace and Love, Terry Tutor
John and I thank you, Terry!
1973 was the greatest post-split year for us Beatles people. All of the Fabs released superb albums, despite the fact that the critics reviews weren't ecstatic.
"Mind Games" is vastly under-rated.
"Living In The Material World" is one of my favourite George albums.
"Red Rose Speedway" was an encouraging portent of the majestic "Band On The Run" masterpiece, without even counting Macca's excellent non-album (UK) single of that same year (Helen Wheels/ Country Dreamer).
And then, almost miraculously, Ringo astounded us all with an album of the highest quality which produced a couple of massive hit singles as well as some classic album tracks, not the least of which is "I'm The Greatest", an absolutely perfect track in every way. It was an inspired decision by John to give this song to Ringo.
Edit to add: AND we got the Red and Blue compilation albums as well. What a year!
Bring back 1973!!!
I hadn't listened to this LP in decades, but it's clearly Ringo's best. I think the book on the fabs solo video is is a great idea and will look forward to it. :- ) A supplemental video compilation would be ideal, but most likely too $$ involved, but Apple should consider it. Thanks Matt and John.
I've quite liked Ringo's recent records. Time Takes Time is the best album he's ever done. Vertical Man, Choose Love, Ringorama are very enjoyable.
"Ringo's recent records"? The ones you mentioned came out between 1992 through 2005, 2005 being 18 years ago! LOL
@@robertzastrow4648 well since you want to get fussy (I mentioned those albums in particular because the hosts seem to dismiss everything after the 1973 album), I have Y Not, Ringo 2012, What's My Name, Zoom In and the two recent 10 inch EP's. I think Ringo is making music because it's what he does, he enjoys working in the studio, I don't think he's under any illusion that he's gonna sell millions of records or be "cutting edge".
@@ronfowlermusic I brought it up because it's just factually wrong to call a number of old records/CDs "recent". Don't think that's being fussy. Also think that John and Matt were too dismissive of Ringo's work after 1973. Have a number of Ringo's solo albums/CDs from across the years, and have likes/dislikes about each one. Personally, I don't agree with his decision to stop releasing complete/full CDs, now only releasing 4 song expensive EPs, and also his refusal to continue giving people autographs. I know he has his reasons for his decisions. I don't have to agree with his reasons, however. ALSO, am not interested in your reasons for either defending or rationalizing what he does, acting more like his Manager than a fan of his work.
@@robertzastrow4648 somebody woke up on the grumpy side today! Peace and love!
Ray in comments haha
Pop goes 60s right up there as my fave channel! Great work love it
Agreed...
9:43 it's on the Lennon boxed set from 2000. They run thru it multiple times....my favorite is when John sings "and you know what they told me.....your great"....sarcastically spoken.
When people ask me my biggest influences I always say 1) The Beatles and 2) The Early 70s solo work of Mr. Ringo Starr. I got into music later in life and I wasn't technically very good and do funny songs. This album really helped bring back the element that somewhat got lost in the breakup: just plain fun.
I love John's solo music yet I think this Ringo album is the most "Beatles" sounding album of all their solo work, perhaps only "Band On The Run" Being the only album out by this time. One of the great tragedies of the breakup is how it separated all of them (save Paul) from George Martin, even the "reunion" single of FREE AS A BIRD didn't really have the production sound of the Beatles to me, and so much of the solo stuff just wasn't as well produced as the group stuff.
This album also brought back something NONE of their solo work did (aside from the Traveling Wilberys) the feeling of a musical community, which was so much a part of their success.
I actually like all of the songs on the album myself (aside from the tacked-on B-Side Down and Out which seems pointless to me) Even It's Don't Come Easy and the B-Side Early 1970 add so much to the album.
So far all these reasons, this remains, for me, my favorite post-breakup album (aside from maybe Band On The Run)
When I saw him play two weeks ago he did Back Off Boogaloo and it got a very muted response from the crowd (many of whom seemed to know his other solo songs) and I wonder if it's become somewhat forgotten despite being a hit because it wasn't on this album. I agree that so much of his remaining work is forgettable, though I do wish he had included "Grow Old With Me" and a song he wrote a few years ago where he goes "What's My Name.. RINGO" in his concert, both of these would be crowd-pleasers.
I love the All Starr Band concert as I've been to thousands of open mikes and it reminds me of them and brings back again the community feeling of the Beatles. I would love, however, to see him do a complete Ringo song show. He would have about an hour of hits and could fill the rest in with his lesser know stuff, mainly from this album.
Funny thing is, inside The Beatles, Ringo was sometimes the best singer out of the 4. Each of them had a different Scouse accent, and his nasal twang reaching plaintively for an upper range is perfect for With a Little Help' and the exact sweet sound of boyhood leaving Liverpool in 'Yellow Submarine' that Lennon only makes macabre in his early REVOLVER sessions. Lennon and the rest are too sophisticated to fake naivety in 1966. Ringo's sound *depends* on naivety.
Reading Ray Coleman's wobbly old Lennon bio (believe all interviewees...believe all interviewees...) Cynthia remembers JL's make-believe haze about his father around 1959 that really ties in with Lennon's 'Yellow Submarine' demo lyrics that morphed from "In the town where I come from, no one cares, no one cares" to "lived a man who sailed to sea":
"His father was a taboo subject: John had this vision, which he gave to Cynthia, of a great seafaring man, with a wonderful singing voice, 'a hero in the distance,' whom he could not see because he had to go away for important work at sea."
But he needed Ringo to sell that naive fantasy.
Great conversation. I always enjoyed this album, definitely one of his best. He did face a decline after this and while Goodnight Vienna did okay, his 1976 follow up did not and it’s been a downward spiral ever since. He has put out some quality work in the 1990s and the collaborations with Mark Hudson are worthwhile. I think you hit it on the head with the fact that his recording career was seen as a novelty by many record buyers and many didn’t see the need to keep buying another Ringo album which is unfortunate because there is some worthy material buried in these albums. Thanks for posting!
Thanks for the comments, Bill!
Hey Matt, another very enjoyable collaboration between you & John, keep ‘em coming! You raised a very good point about more possible collaborative efforts between Ringo & George. We get a nice glimpse in the Let It Be/ Get Back films when they worked on O. G. The booklet with the Voorman illustrations is great, & your right, the US orig. copy does not have the staples. I’ve got a well preserved copy here. I still enjoy this album, one can imagine the party it was having all his friends around him recording it!😄🎶
Thank you, Tom. John and I plan to be back with more soon!
Pretty fair and fun assessment of the album...I got it for Christmas when it came out in '73.....I always enjoy these videos....keep 'em coming...when you can, of course...haha (John Fallon)
I think the song Paul wrote for Ringo was a message to Ringo. It was a public apology to Ringo in the guise of a love song. Paul was good at sending messages to the other Beatles in the form of a song.
Great show Matt. Appreciated entertainment. 👍
I appreciate that Mark!
"I'm The Greatest" with Lennon's guide vocal is on the official JL Anthology box set from 1998.
Ringo, Band on The Run, and Walls and Bridges: A good Beatle run in 73-74. Dark Horse was hoarse. I was a junior in high school and my thinking was They'll get back together soon. But oh, no.
Ringo went to rehab and cleaned up in '88.
I believe it was 1989 when I saw him in Pori Jazz in Finland. I think it was the start of his All Star line. Did'n do anything to me that concert but I bought White Album on that trip and that was my kind of music. Wow!
I love ringo.he knew he wasn't the most talented Beatle, but he had fun and didnt take himself too seriously
The Ringo album is where Richard Perry turns to George Martin and says, "Hold my beer". I'd say Perry conquered that challenge.
I love the “Ringo “ album. It’s fun and it included John, Paul & George. The outro thanking his guests was great to here.. I love every song !
Love six o’ clock … really enjoying your guys reviews. Don’t forget the great lines in I’m the greatest..yes my name is Billy Shears …just a little help from my friends!
Ringo plays on Ray Wylie Hubbard records , really great drumming, He even does a Ringo song , it’s great!
Speaking of Heaton's mention of Ringo's 1970s music videos, does anyone remember Ringo's appearance in the US on the Phil Donahue show to promote his made-for-television comedy film? I was in 4th grade when the Donahue appearance was broadcast on daytime TV, watched the entire thing.
That is an excellent interview and I just re-watched it recently. I will be mining that for some future video topics.
You mentioned the Shaving Cream song. "Shaving cream; be nice and clean. Shave every day and you'll always look keen." The band Chicago even had what could be called a novelty song: "America Needs You, Harry Truman." Ray Stevens' "The Streak" hit #1. "The Night Chicago Died," by Paper Lace. "The No-No Song." All within about the same year.
My understanding with Jim Kenner is they needed an American drummer when he was recording in the USA
Tom Scott plays the sax solo on "Oh My My": en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oh_My_My_(Ringo_Starr_song)
beaucoups of blues is my favourite and only album I can listen to by Ringo.
When you were talking about oh my my you said none of the other Beatles had matched Ringo’s chart success at this point. However, at that point Ringo had
2 no. 1 singles
3 top 10 singles
0 no. 1 albums
Paul had
2 no. 1 songs
5 top 10 songs
2 no. 1 albums
Even George and John had no.1 albums and George had 2 no. 1 songs but less top 10
So it was actually
Paul
Ringo
George
John
For singles
And
Paul/George
John
Ringo for albums
Hands down Ringo's best album.
As Matt suggests, before MTV videos were far lower-budget. I'd go so far as to say it's a different art form.
You can say the 'Plastic Ono Band' album was Ringo's last legitimate drum album...
That is a good point. I know he doesn't remember much about All Things Must Pass though he played on quite a lot of it.
Nicky Hopkins is also on " Basketball Jones"
lee sanna Recently saw a photo posted on Quora, of Ringo with John during John's Plastic Ono Band album sessions. They're both sitting next to each other, talking and smiling. Didn't know any photos of the two together during this time had been taken. Was nice to see the photo.
@@robertzastrow4648 thank you Robert, I'll check it out, sounds cool 🙏
I have to admit to being a serious nullity when it comes to a lot of this music...I frankly did not like so much of it. As a teen in the mid 70s Frampton and Boston had much more appeal than the vapidity of Harrison, Starr, and Lennon. I still don't like a lot of it.
However...I really like listening to intelligent discussions about the music. For whatever reason I would prefer to hear it discussed than the actual music. It is for this reason that I VERY much appreciate Matt's programs. He does an excellent job bringing this era to life.
Great discussion Matt. Thank you for these!
Thank you, Neil. I also prefer discussion to listening to much of the solo years music.
Someone said Ringo is so bland. Always loved this lp. Your describing it makes it bland :(
Nilsons best song was spaceman
Easily, his best, and as good as any other Beatles solo album
I believe you're 16 was suggested by Lennon i think he's on tape saying that
I think you’re referring to ‘only you’
I don't really get what motivated Ringo to continue. He is so chill that he seems uninterested. I guess the money is still good.
It isn't like Paul who seems to really love creating music and playing concerts.
Maybe it's money and camaraderie of fellow musicians and they probably want to help him and vice versa. I mean when he plays he enjoys and has good time with friends, so why not have the business going on and keep the Beatles legacy alive a bit.
Thanks for steering John clear of making annoying political statements!
Is Heaton pissed? (In the English sense 🍻)
Think he may be hungover after another heavy session
😂
Nah, John was sharp as a tack!
@@popgoesthe60s52 pop goes the 60s is the man, he even interacts with plebs like us..we salute your work sir!
No I was sober as a judge for this one :- )
"Ringo" was the only decent album he ever did. The rest are all substandard. Anyone who thinks they are good are wearing Beatle colored glasses.
Great collaboration you guys. Nice review on Ringo’s best album. The album still sounds good to this day. Photograph (GH song seriously) still sounds so fresh and beautiful. Looking forward to more reviews from the two of you together!
I would love to see the both of you guys do a review of Walls and Bridges. It would make for an interesting video of you both being on polar opposite spectrums of the album. Considering how John Heaton ranks it highly (rightly so), I will most likely be more in lockstep with him. The back-and-forth dialogue would certainly lend itself for debate.
Like many, I believe that the '73 Ringo album is his best solo album. Agree that there are at least a few references to the Sergeant Pepper album, not only with the front cover painting showing everyone appearing on the album, on a stage, but also John's lyric from "I'm The Greatest" ("Yes, my name is Billy Shears. . ."). Both the front and back cover paintings are credited to a Tim Bruckner (from the CD sleeve booklet). Think the songs flow well together. Matt, I like "Oh, My My" and think it's a funky little tune! Agree that "You And Me (Babe) is a good closer for the album. The album is the closest we ever got to having the Beatles reunite. Matt, like your idea that Ringo and George should have tried writing more together, or Ringo could have tried to develop more his acting career. Another person I think he could have done more with was Marc Bolan of T. Rex, who he was friends with, and who Ringo did a documentary on about this time, which he directed. Think it's called Back The Boogie (Don't quote me on that, though!). Matt, you also forgot to mention the Tony Orlando & Dawn variety series, when you listed for John 1970s American Variety Shows. In 1978, Ringo did do the "Ognir Ratts" television special on NBC (a take off of The Prince & The Pauper, which George made a cameo appearance in). Not getting too down on you, though, because both you and John did a very good review of a very good Ringo album!
I always loved this album and played it a lot in 1973, I always thought one of the best things about the album was the sketches by Klaus Voorman, an excellent artist.
Show Waddy Waddy Wrote their first hit but the rest were covers. I'm actually embarrassed that I know that.
Great video between both of u. Hope there is many more
there ain't no one that delivers like Pop Goes the Sixties. You, Matt, find water in a well that is so frequently visited. THE RINGO lp is his peak, and he learned that inviting guests worked. Still does it. You offered deep insight into what might have been if more collaboration has been done. Shame in so many ways. Sincerity, and insight is the key to why i always love your work.
Thank you so much, Barry. Your comments mean a lot to me.
The sunshine life for me is a good song ! It’s lo- fi magic ..Don McLean does a great live version of it .
Goodnight Vienna is also very good. John’s contributions are great.
I never bought "Old Wave", "Ringo's Rotogravure", "Bad Boy" or "Ringo the 4th" but I have the "Starr Struck: Best of Ringo Starr, Vol. 2" album which has songs from those and others. He didn't do a lot of extracurricular drumming but in 1984 he did appear in Paul's "Give My Regards to Broad Street" which was not a career enhancer.
PS: I saw the RINGO all star band , first tour 1989 in L.A. Greek Theater…Joe Walsh, Billy Preston, Dr. John, Rick Danko, Levon Helm, Nils Logren , Clarence Clemons …Jim Keltner …and it worked! Entertainment at its best.
I saw that concert as well - great one!
I love these reviews of The Beatles and the solo Beatle stuff. I feel very fortunate to have grown up with the Beatles in real time. I saw them the first night on Ed Sullivan when I was 10 years old and it changed my life. I had always thought the song "Photograph" was written about Patti Harrison.
Interesting!
I'm always a fan of this album and its overall cheerful mood. Never liked, "Oh My My," either Matt. I wonder if one has to be a Beatles Fan to love this album!! John I really enjoy your"defenses," as you are a fan like me. I enjoys both of your insights.
Pretty spot on takes on a very good album. My thoughts are more in line with yours Matt. . John is a little more charitable than I would be. Ringo must have a very effective handshake 😊 That hour and twenty flew by. Thanks for an entertaining discussion. Cheers, RNB
Hey Rick! Thanks for chiming in!
I noticed when Professor Heaton is asked to talk about the book he is jointly working on, he subtly employs an old passive-aggressive Macca trick involving his middle-finger; naughty Professor, naugh-TEE…
Time Takes Time is the last great serious/ legit album Ringo did imo
Ringo Rama?
Ringo tickets are on sale now for his October appearance at the ChicagoTheatre. From what I could see, prices start at $119 and go up from there.
Enjoyed this! 🙂👍
Thanks Larry!
Photograph is one of my favorite songs of the 70's. It was very touching when Ringo sang this at the Concert For George event.
It's my favourite solo album by Ringo.
Mal supposedly contributed to 'Fixing a Hole' and Paul first told him he'd get a song-writing credit, but later backed off saying something to the effect of "We have to preserve this Lennon-McCartney thing". He also *inspired*, but did not come up with, the Sgt. Pepper idea because he and Paul were on a plane back from a safari in Africa and he asked Paul to pass the "salt and pepper" and Paul thought he'd said "Sgt. Pepper". These stories combined to create a bunch of "Mal was central to the whole Sgt. Pepper album but was killed before his auto-biography could come out in the 70's to expose it all" rumors. Cheers on another great video, gents.
And also Mal bringing in Badfinger to the Apple label and producing also.
I can’t wait to watch this video after work today. This album merits a deep dive.
Who would win in a rap battle, Ringo Starr or Cardi B? But in all seriousness that was a great video!
At the time prior to release- the rumors were " It's a Beatles Reunion Album". George wr/co-wrote 3 songs and John and Paul contribute a song each. They all weren't in the studio or country at the same time. Was told the cassette version of " Six O'clock" is a little different than the LP. Regardless, I played the album alot. Also the non- LP flipside " I'm Down and Out" available on the CD. Lol- during the song Ringo mentions " Gary"(Brooker) not " Harry" ( HARRISON 's nickname among his circle.)
Gary would be Gary Brooker or Gary Wright on the piano
I remember shaving cream. Lol I love this album beginning to end. Love your collaboration videos with John.
I bought that album when it came out and I still love that album. My next favorite Ringo album would be Vertical Man.
I don't think that album gets the attention it deserves.
The All Starr Band that you were referring to Matt was the first All Starr Band in 1989. I just saw the All Starr Band in Vegas a little over a week and I thought it was very good. Im not expecting to go see, say a Peter Gabriel type concert. Since 1989, I've seen the All Starr Band I think six times. Each time I understand from the beginning what I am going to see. That's why I've only seen six😊. The whole concept of the All Starr Band is that the artist has to have at least two number one singles in his or her career tobe a part of the band, so that's pretty much you will hear. Like you, Matt, I wish Ringo would change it up a bit, or at least add a few more of his songs.
I think La Di Da would be a great closer. He could have the whole audience singing that song as he leaves the stage. But Ringo refuses to explore his own catalog. I think he is happy playing drums behind everyone else.
As far as the movie Caveman is concerned; I saw that in the theater when it first came out in 1981 and I remember the whole theater audience laughing together at times. Yes, its a silly film, but it's not supposed to be taken seriously. I bought it on DVD years ago and finally watched it not so long ago. Yes, it's a little dated, but I still laughed my butt off.
One more thing, Paul did show off his talent for playing the bass in 1976. When Silly Love Songs was released, I did not like it. In fact as a Beatle/ ex-Beatle fan I was embarrassed by it. But as the years have passed, although not one of my favorites, I am now OK with it. Why? Because of the phenomenal bass playing. It's incredible. Also if you Listen to the Wings Over America album, you can tell that Paul is letting everyone know that he is the bass player. That annoys me, especially on songs like Call Me Back Again where his bass overshadows Jimmy McCulloch lead guitar. Anyways great video as always!
I appreciate the comments, George. I'll have to give Over America a listen to hear Paul's playing. Never cool to overpower the lead guitarist.
@@popgoesthe60s52 yes, I agree!
Totally agree about Vertical Man, its my second favorite Ringo album and my third would be Time Takes Time.
I bought "Ringo " when it first came out in 73 was 21 years old. Then I bought "Goodnight Vienna " the following year. I enjoyed both albums but for whatever reason I lost track of his music until 2003 when I bought "Ringorama" which is also one of his best. I since then have bought most of his current discography but never did go back and get his 80s albums.
Matt, interesting you mentioned 'Basketball Jones' ironically, a song George Harrison is guesting on...
Rod Stewart started his Great American Songbook series in 2002.
Prior to that, Bryan Ferry released an excellent album of standards ("As Time Goes By") in 1999.
Carly Simon's "Torch" album of standards came out in 1981, "My Romance", another album of standards, was released in 1990.
There may well be others but those are the examples which spring to my mind right now.
Roderick wasn't trailing a new path. He was following others who had made very good albums of music from before their era.
Rod's albums were not bad though. At least he took the trouble to present the less well-known intros to many of the familiar tunes and for that alone I give him credit.
Thank you for that info, Gerry!
I suppose the closest there is to a Ringo variety show would be Ringo guest starring on the opening episode of Cilla Black's variety show in 1968.
Very enjoyable head to head not only about this album but Ringo Starr's solo career overall. Never really heard it put so nicely in perspective I think. Also the "what could've been" speculation for Ringo's career was interesting. A bit disconcerting to get the finger from John Heaton so many times but other than that it was very entertaining... 😅 I kid, I'm sure it was a sly tribute to Don Stevenson on Moby Grape's first album cover.
I imagine the discussions may get a bit more heated when we get to early Wings stuff. At least Matt prepared us somewhat. I'll say it here and now though: I really like Single Pigeon.
Matt, I was so happy finding this video this morning! It was as if you made it just for me. 😊 I was about 6 y.o. when I discovered the Beatles. Of the Fab Four, my favorite was Ringo! Here it is decades later, and my hubby just surprised me with tickets to see Ringo in concert! I have never seen a or all the Beatles in concert. Yes he's old but so now am I. I don't care if every note hits because I'm a bit hard of hearing. My mind will hear with the filter of nostalgia. Besides... it's Ringo!!
I did make this one for you, Vicki! Glad you liked it! 😊
John recorded at least 4 or 5 demos of "I'm The Greatest", amending the lyrics with each one. Some of these you can find on UA-cam. While I'm not crazy about "Photograph" as a song, I like the imitation Phil Spector Wall of Sound treatment on the recording. I heard on a Beatles podcast recently that Spector's arranger was approached to help in the arrangement. The gentleman's name escapes me, though.
'Sunshine Life For Me' is my favorite, sounds like the missing song on 'Big Pink'...
Great 2 to see you both again this time ringos finest Ringos self tittles album without it’s the best from ringo without doubt with all his fellow Beatles contributions great stuff got on its release to opened the door to possible reunion of the fab s it was well received
Out by Christmas?? John's trying to give me a nervous breakdown! Great chat here guys, really enjoyed it.
You’d better get busy James!
But he didn't say which Christmas....
I watched your entire video and found it very interesting. It makes want to get the two books you and John were referring to: Revolution in the Head and Four Sides of the Circle. I saw Ringo and his All-Starr Band a few years ago and I enjoyed the show very much. A friend of mine told me once that he saw Ringo and his All-Starr Band back in the late '80s or early '90s. He told me John Entwistle was on bass. When it was John's turn to sing a couple of his tunes the band played "Boris the Spider" and the crowd looked puzzled, like "What is THIS???". My friend, however, loved it! I remember buying the RINGO album in the early-to-mid '70s and I had always enjoyed it. I remember hearing the three hits from that album on the radio in early 1974 when I was a senior in high school. The next thing I wanted to tell you is not "Ringo" related. Not too long ago I watched a video of a guy reviewing the early albums of The Mothers of Invention...just the Verve years. That would be a suggestion for an episode. Another suggestion would be to do an episode on The Monkees from 1966 to 1971. Take care, Matt, and congratulations to you for your wedding.
I heard Entwistle do Boris as well. I was thrilled!
In '73, still trying to adjust to the new solo Beatles' sound, unlike the other Three's solo efforts up until that point, Ringo's album felt right immediately...
John, Paul and George were trying not to sound like the Beatles but for Ringo it helped him a lot. It's what the fans wanted to hear.
@@frugalseverin2282 Exactly! -and Ringo could put a smile on our face upon hearing this album.
I wonder who the 'Two Bit Sax Player' Lennon was referring to in George's book 'I Me Mine', lol, perhaps it was just a metaphor,...did John use that same Two Bit Sax player on 'Whatever Gets You Through The Night'?
Possibly one of the best Beatles solo albums from beginning to end. Even though George, John and Paul wrote a couple songs, Ringo and his producer made it a tight album
Agreed!
FFS John sharp as a tack! 2 Lennon aficionados that either don"t own or have played the Lennon box set from 98. This is where you find the full band version of I'm the greatest, Matt may be correct in that it may have been on bootleg also. The lack of knowledge from enthusiasts is astounding but no surprise from dizzy John.
My comment was that it hadn’t been demoed before the Ringo album…certainly not demoed for any solo Lennon album…of course I have the 1973 demo
I think you can also put down the success of Ringo to the production by Richard Perry as was the case with Harry Nelson who had great success with the album Nilsson Schmilsson
I bought it the day it came out. I was 12.
Me too! Very cool!
Oh My My is clearly a tribute or nod at least to Marc Bolan who is on the second track. Lyrics like “boogie” and Born to Boogie, which Starr directed, and “slide.” T.Rex had The Slider out a year earlier, with Ringo falsely credited with taking the iconic shot for the album sleeve.
Thanks Matt, interesting content as usual. Appreciated.
I wasn't aware Klaus didn't illustrate the cover, I always felt Yoko's characature was a bit suspicious...
As parts get mixed and edited in and out, it can be hard with accuracy to keep track of who does and doesn't end up on the final tracks across an album.
Imo, this was not a Beatles reunion. Except for Photograph, the songwriting by the Beatles members are second-rate. Down and Out was probably the next best song and it wasn't even put on the album. Just like the Byrds reunion didn't have enough Rickenbacker, this 'Beatles reunion' had way too much Bobby Keys saxophone. That was the Dave Clark Five that used sax frequently, Ringo, not the Beatles. Unlike anything by the Beatles, it's never an album to go back to -- the humor doesn't work well twice over. I actually found Goodnight Vienna a mild improvement that dropped off with Rotogravure. His later Harrison collaboration 'Wrack My Brain' grates on the brain. So such a pairing may not have been so hot either. I love Ringo the guy, and don't even mind some of his later songs, but I believe you're correct: He should've stayed with the style of Beaucoup of Blues. 'No No Song' is probably his best subsequent song. I did like his Blast from the Past compilation, however. His singles weren't bad up to that time, except maybe for some of the songs from this album: Oh My My (typical 70s humor song, as you say) and You're Sixteen (Phil Ochs actually singled out this 45 as an example of how bad he thought 70s music became). And don't even get me started on the 'Ringo' album cover artwork. Terrible! -- except for the lithographs. What goes on about Vegas, should stay in Vegas! Overall, not a terrible album to listen to once, but it's terrible as a Beatles reunion. At no time were the Beatles in the same room together during the production other than pairing with Ringo himself. Rant over. Btw, 'Magic Christian' was a good Ringo film.
I just recently bought the CD. I had mostly compilation stuff from Ringo from his early solo years. The CD Version has the same packaging as the vynl, apparently. I am still looking for the vynl version for myself.
I was born in the 60's, huge Beatles fan. And aside from McCartney's 1st, Plastic Ono Band, Band On the Run, All Things Must Pass, and Double Fantasy; I know nothing of Beatle solo albums. Very interesting! Thanks fellas.
This album gets right up there for one of the best solo efforts by the Beatles.
I think the reason this album gets all the buzz is the song "PHONOGRAPH", which Harrison co-wrote with Ringo on holiday, and Harrison recorded at the time he was doing Living in the Material World. I hear the Phil Spector from All Things Must Pass on the track. Maureen, Patty and Cilla Black were on hand, and I wonder what the song would have been like recorded by Cilla.
The album came out at Christmas time. I was 15 and just loved it. I was a BIG Beatles fan (had bought a copy of Beaucoup des Blues at a Kmart as a deleted record). And this album had a great sound. I had a clean vinyl copy and it just played great.
I'M THE GREATEST
HAVE YOU SEEN MY BABY... I would have liked to have seen Randy Newman in study to guide the recording process.
PHOTOGRAPH... Bobby Kees sax solo...
SUNSHINE LIFE FOR ME... Looking back to Beaucoup des Blues-interesting idea.
YOU'RE SIXTEEN ... There was a. revival of the 50s and early 60s going on. American Graffiti was ou that year. And this song just captured the mood. Looking back to Sentimental Journey-interesting idea. Nelson on backing vocals... 'Kazoo' (by Paul McCartney) 'mouth sax solo'.
OH MY MY... A nice tapping toe song for Ringo. Don't love it, but I can listen to it. I can see it as a novelty song.
STEP LIGHTLY
SIX OCLOCK
DEVIL WOMAN
YOU AND ME BABE... Mal Evans writes a song with George.
A fine review, Matt and John. John, it was Bryan Ferry who did a Standards LP. True for the live shows. Pity about the rare performances of hidden jewels. I think it was Jagger who said, People want to hear the Greatest Hits. They paid for this type of show.
Ringo could change the lyric to "We're 16, you're beautiful and you're mine. I think the lyric is O.K. then and represents the original spirit of the song.
8
I always enjoy your conversations with John Heaton, and I hope that you guys will continue to do this on a regular basis. Since you discussed the questionable "Some Time in NYC," why not discuss a much better Lennon album? "Plastic Ono Band" and "Imagine" have been very much reviewed through the years, so how about a look at "Walls and Bridges"?
11:30 - Matt, it WAS called "Hold on" on early pressings. I don't know why it was changed to the other title. The pressing I have is unplayable, but I still have the cover and the booklet inside, so...KEEPERS/
I found out in 1973, age 10, that they'd broken up some time before. I didn't even know they were British til then, either😅. "I want To Thold Your Hand" sounded so American. A bit later, I started catching up on all their arguments, rows, etc. I asked my brother why they broke up and he said they were fighting, and I could not believe that. It was very sad to hear all that, but now, it's so long ago, you can even use their experience to help you cope in your life if you're having difficulty at work or in whichever circumstance.
28:20 - I love the pounding drums on Back off Boogaloo, but there's a great chorus "get yourself together now,......you know it just sounds wasted...." There are some good lyrics in it.
One of the overlooked features of this album is that Harrison co -wrote/ played on half of it. Five songs out of eleven (counting the B-side). A darn shame that the Harrison song weren't put out by Harrison because they are almost all better than what he put out in 1973-75. You also get a sense of what a great arranger Harrison was.
Ringo has a new secret project that's incredible, the guests are mind boggling. The content is pure Beatles genius. Producer Jack Douglas. It will be massive. The rights and contractual details are massive. I can't wait.
Being the big "The Band" fan that I am, I love "Sunshine Life For Me (Sail Away Raymond)"!
you two goofballs, "I'm The Greatest" is on the 4-cd "Lennon Anthology"