How Ringo Starr Secretly Asked The Beatles To Reconcile

In the wake of The Beatles’ public breakup announcement in 1970, Ringo Starr found a unique way to reach out to his former bandmates. Through the song “Early 1970,” Starr penned an open letter to Paul McCartney, John Lennon, and George Harrison, expressing his heartfelt desire for a musical reunion. Despite the uncertainties and tensions surrounding the band’s dissolution, Starr’s secret plea carried a message of hope and longing for their collaboration once again.

A Musical Letter to His Bandmates

Following The Beatles’ decision to pursue individual solo careers, Ringo Starr embarked on his own musical journey. In 1971, he released his debut solo single, “It Don’t Come Easy,” which featured the song “Early 1970” as the B-side. With each verse, Starr addressed his former bandmates individually, offering glimpses into their lives.

Starr sang of Paul McCartney’s farm life and his “brand new wife and family.” He then turned his attention to John Lennon, depicting him watching TV in bed with his mother by his side, highlighting their shared sense of liberation. Finally, Starr described George Harrison as a long-haired, guitar-playing troubadour, painting a picture of his serene existence with his “long-legged lady” in a peaceful garden.

Throughout the song, Starr pondered the likelihood of collaborating with each bandmate once more. While expressing confidence in Lennon and Harrison, his uncertainty about McCartney’s intentions surfaced due to ongoing legal disputes between McCartney and the band.

Hope Amidst Turmoil

Despite the tumultuous atmosphere surrounding The Beatles’ breakup, Ringo Starr’s concerns about McCartney’s willingness to reconcile were unwarranted. McCartney’s affinity for Starr’s amiable nature transcended their disagreements, even during the most contentious times. Starr’s heartfelt attempt at reconciliation likely resonated with McCartney, who, despite his anger, felt a sense of loneliness and abandonment by his former bandmates.

Starr’s Foresight Realized

Ringo Starr’s musical plea for reconciliation did not go unanswered. Shortly after the release of “Early 1970,” the four Beatles came together once more, collaborating on Starr’s 1973 album, aptly titled “Ringo.” This reunion marked the beginning of a series of collaborations between Starr and his former bandmates in the years to come.

Using “Early 1970” as an emotional catalyst, Starr’s open letter seemed to have played a role in fostering a renewed sense of camaraderie and willingness to work together. The song acted as a poignant reminder of the bond they shared, encouraging the ex-Beatles to set aside their grievances and create music as a collective once again.