Ringo Starr is preparing his next album, set for release in early 2026, with producer T Bone Burnett — and fans are already buzzing over a rumored Carl Perkins cover and a packed tour schedule.
The Beatles drummer and acclaimed solo artist Ringo Starr is poised to release his next album around a year after his 2025 country effort Look Up. In a candid fall interview with the Associated Press, Starr confirmed he’s deep into production with producer and songwriter T Bone Burnett, who has become a key collaborator in his recent creative resurgence.
Starr hinted at a February release window, but with his trademark humility, he acknowledged the label’s influence: “The record label might change my mind. [They might ask], ‘Do you think we could have it January the 19th?’ But whatever… We’ll see.” This flexibility reflects Starr’s enduring respect for his team’s commercial instincts — even as he remains the creative engine behind the project.
What makes this album particularly exciting is the direction Starr and Burnett are taking. Starr revealed he’s recording a cover of a Carl Perkins song — a nod to his Beatles era, when Perkins’ “Matchbox” and “Honey Don’t” were among his first hits. “I just loved it because it was like country and rock at the same time,” Starr said, describing the cover as “a little sadder” than his earlier Beatles renditions.
Starr’s 2025 has been a whirlwind of activity. He wrapped his All-Starr Band tour with a lineup including Steve Lukather, Colin Hay, Hamish Stuart, Gregg Bissonette, Buck Johnson, and Warren Ham. Now, he’s juggling multiple projects with Burnett — not just a new country album, but also other creative ventures that may include additional songwriting and production.
“It’s been work,” Starr admitted, laughing. “I’m writing a few songs for the country album, playing drums on every track, and singing every track. And then there’s other things we’re doing together.” This level of involvement underscores his commitment to the music, even as he approaches 85.
Starr’s fans have long appreciated his genre-blending approach — and his latest album Look Up featured a stellar roster of collaborators, including Molly Tuttle and Billy Strings. The new project is expected to continue this trend, with Burnett’s signature blend of Americana and rock serving as the foundation.
Starr’s upcoming tour plans are equally ambitious. In November, he announced a spring 2026 tour with his All-Starr Band, hitting venues across California, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado. “I am happy to be touring again in the Spring — see you all in June. Peace and love,” he wrote, confirming the return of his beloved ensemble.
While Starr’s recent interviews have focused on his new album and tour, his legacy as a Beatles icon remains central to his current work. The fact that he’s revisiting Perkins’ songs — a direct link to his Beatles beginnings — shows his deep respect for the roots of his musical journey.
For fans, this is more than just a new album — it’s a continuation of Starr’s lifelong passion for music, collaboration, and storytelling. His ability to blend country, rock, and pop into something uniquely his own has made him one of the most enduring figures in modern music.
As Starr continues to create and perform, his message remains clear: “Whatever… We’ll see.” That’s the spirit of an artist who’s lived through decades of change — and still finds joy in the process.
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