T4K3.news

Ringo Starr walks out during The White Album sessions

Tensions led to Ringo leaving The Beatles as they worked on 'The White Album'.

January 6, 2025 at 03:27 PM

'Fantastic' Beatles song that made Ringo Starr leave the band

Tensions peaked within The Beatles as Ringo Starr left the band during recording.

Ringo Starr walked out during sessions for The White Album

Recording sessions for The Beatles' 'The White Album' in 1968 marked a time of high tension among the band members. As they pursued a more experimental sound, creative differences escalated. Ringo Starr walked out on August 22, tired of the negative atmosphere and criticism of his drumming. Despite this, the band continued to work on their first track, 'Back in the USSR,' without him. Ringo returned weeks later, just in time for promotional activities following the release of 'Hey Jude.'

Key Takeaways

✔️

Ringo's departure highlights the creative tensions within The Beatles.

✔️

The Beatles' sound evolved significantly during the late 1960s.

✔️

'Back in the USSR' received both acclaim and political controversy.

✔️

Paul's later performance in Russia showcased the song's enduring impact.

"There was a lot of friction during that album. We were just about to break up."

Paul McCartney reflects on the tense environment while recording 'The White Album'.

"I left because I felt I wasn’t playing great and I felt that the other three were really happy and I was an outsider."

Ringo Starr explains his reasons for leaving the band during the recording sessions.

"It was a mystical land then. It's nice to see the reality."

Paul McCartney shares his thoughts after performing in Russia many years later.

"A fantastic piece of screaming excitement. Great opener."

NME review of 'Back in the USSR' highlights its lively nature.

The tensions during the recording of 'The White Album' illustrate a turning point for The Beatles, where individual creativity clashed with group dynamics. Ringo's departure highlights how internal pressures affected their collaboration. The difference in musical vision among the members was becoming increasingly apparent, setting the stage for their eventual breakup. This situation not only shaped the album but also affected their legacy in music history.