The Beatles' Ringo Starr: A Songwriting Legacy
The Beatles, a legendary band, released a total of 229 songs during their time together. While most of their songs were penned by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, George Harrison contributed to 22 tracks, and Ringo Starr wrote only two. Despite his limited songwriting role, Starr's compositions left a lasting impact on the band's music.
In 1968, Ringo Starr took a brief break from The Beatles due to escalating tensions within the group. During this hiatus, he wrote and recorded one of his most significant contributions to the band. His first self-penned song, "Don't Pass Me By," was featured on The Beatles (White Album) in 1968. Starr composed the tune on the piano at home, showcasing his musical talent and creativity.
"Octopus's Garden," the last song Ringo Starr wrote for The Beatles, appeared on the iconic Abbey Road album in 1969. Starr came up with the idea for the song while vacationing in Italy with Peter Sellers. The whimsical lyrics of the song reflect a deeper meaning, symbolizing a desire for escape and tranquility during a turbulent time for the band.
Despite only writing two songs for The Beatles, Ringo Starr's contributions extended to co-writing credits on several other tracks. His collaboration with Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison resulted in songs like "What Goes On," "Flying," "Dig It," and "Maggie May." These songs showcase the camaraderie and creativity shared among the band members.
In 2026, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr are the only surviving members of The Beatles. McCartney's upcoming album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, features a duet with Starr titled "Home to Us," marking their first collaboration in over fifty years. The track highlights the enduring bond and musical legacy of the two iconic musicians.