Call me Ringo. That's what the former Beatles drummer says when asked if we should call him Sir.
He joins us at the swanky Sunset Marquis hotel in West Hollywood where rock stars have gathered for decades in a luxury oasis behind the Sunset Strip.
We're here to talk music – specifically Ringo Starr's new country album, Long Long Road.
But first we deal with the honorifics because although he was knighted in 2018 for his services to music, technically, he says, it's wrong to call him Sir Ringo because he's actually Sir Richard.
Sir Richard laughs. He just wants to talk music, and he's not worried about formalities or titles. His new album is more Nashville than Los Angeles and he seems more LA than Liverpool, as he encourages an American interviewing a British national treasure for the BBC to just relax.
Peace and love, he says, a soothing catchphrase often used by the 85-year-old music legend who looks, moves, and sings like a much younger man.
On his new country album, Starr collaborates with the likes of Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings, and St. Vincent, embracing the rich music culture of Nashville.
Starr emphasizes the importance of collaboration in music, reflecting on his past experiences, stating, I made all my mistakes on stage. He advocates for young musicians to play together instead of practicing alone, sharing his belief that jamming with others leads to growth.
As he prepares for his upcoming tour, Starr is keen to highlight the country genre's modern appeal, even noting its crossover with pop music, citing Beyoncé's recent venture into country.
Beyond music, Starr jokes about his life, confirming anecdotes like coining the phrase A Hard Day's Night and being the first Beatle to smoke pot. As he gets ready for a new chapter in his music career, he remains a beloved figure, embodying the spirit of peace and love.
