Ringo Starr's musical journey in the 1980s and 1990s was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by a slump in his career and a subsequent comeback that showcased his resilience and artistic evolution. While his first album in a decade, Time Takes Time, didn't achieve the commercial success he had hoped for, it was a pivotal moment in his solo career and a testament to his enduring talent. In my opinion, this album is a fascinating case study in the challenges of staying relevant in a rapidly changing music industry, and it highlights the power of perseverance and artistic integrity.
Starr's success in the 1970s as a solo artist was remarkable, with hits like "It Don't Come Easy" and "Photograph" showcasing his smooth transition from being the quiet Beatle to a solo singles sensation. However, his songwriting limitations meant he had to rely on outside material, and his 1981 album Stop and Smell the Roses underperformed, leading to his record label dropping him. This was a low point, but it was also a turning point, as Starr's personal struggles with substance abuse intensified during this time.
The 1980s were a challenging period for Starr, both personally and professionally. His inability to secure a release for his album Old Wave in the UK or the US was a significant setback, and his musical fortunes faded as his personal issues grew. However, a stint in rehab and a renewed focus on his health and career marked the beginning of his comeback.
Starr's return to the studio in the late 1980s was a pivotal moment. He rode the wave of all-star comeback albums, working with top producers like Jeff Lynne, Peter Asher, Don Was, and Phil Ramone, and surrounded himself with an all-star cast of musicians, including Benmont Tench, Brian Wilson, and Harry Nilsson. This period was a creative high point, and the resulting album, Time Takes Time, was a testament to his resilience and artistic vision.
The lead single, "Weight of the World," produced by Was, was a nod to the psychedelic 1960s, with lyrics that warned against getting bogged down in the past. However, despite a huge promotional push and a promising lead single, the album failed to achieve the commercial success Starr had hoped for. Released in 1992, it didn't quite jibe with the downcast grunge vibes dominating the rock airwaves at the time.
Despite this setback, Time Takes Time earned Starr some of the best reviews since his 1970s heyday. The music on the album has aged quite well, and it gave Starr the momentum to continue his solo career, which is still going strong today. In my opinion, this album is a fascinating case study in the challenges of staying relevant in a rapidly changing music industry, and it highlights the power of perseverance and artistic integrity.
What makes this album particularly fascinating is the way it showcases Starr's ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to his roots. The album is a testament to his resilience and artistic vision, and it's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, creativity and perseverance can lead to a triumphant comeback. From my perspective, Time Takes Time is not just a solo album, but a symbol of Starr's enduring legacy and his ability to rise above the challenges of a career spanning decades.
