A Dose of Honest Truth in a Rock and Roll World: Ringo Starr’s Enduring Wisdom in “It Don’t Come Easy”
Ah, yes, “It Don’t Come Easy”. Just the title itself brings a certain knowing smile to the lips, doesn’t it? Released in April of 1971, this single wasn’t just another tune drifting through the airwaves; it was a statement, a slice of grounded reality delivered with the unmistakable charm of Ringo Starr. At the time of its release, the song resonated deeply with audiences, climbing to the respectable position of number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and achieving similar success across the globe. It proved that Ringo was more than just the steady beat behind the most famous band in history; he was a capable and insightful artist in his own right.
The story behind “It Don’t Come Easy” is as intriguing as the man himself. While credited solely to Ringo Starr, the initial writing of the song actually involved his former bandmate, George Harrison. In fact, early versions of the track, sometimes referred to as “Early 1970,” featured more prominent contributions from Harrison, who helped shape the melody and structure. However, as the song evolved, it took on Ringo’s distinct personality. Harrison remained involved, playing guitar on the final recording and co-producing the track with Ringo. This collaboration between old friends speaks volumes about the camaraderie that still existed between the former Beatles, a comforting thought for those of us who remember those heady days.
Lyrically, “It Don’t Come Easy” offers a refreshingly straightforward message. It’s a gentle reminder that life, with all its aspirations and desires, requires effort and perseverance. There are no shortcuts to genuine fulfillment, no magic wands to wave away the challenges. Lines like “You gotta pay your dues if you wanna sing the blues, and you know it don’t come easy” are simple yet profound, echoing a timeless wisdom that resonates across generations. In a world often obsessed with instant gratification, Ringo’s honest assessment felt like a breath of fresh air, a comforting acknowledgment of the realities we all face. It wasn’t about grand pronouncements or complex metaphors; it was about the simple truth, delivered with a touch of his characteristic good-naturedness.
The recording of “It Don’t Come Easy” also boasts some notable musical contributions. Along with George Harrison’s distinctive guitar work, the track features Klaus Voormann on bass, who had a long association with The Beatles and their solo projects, and Stephen Stills on piano, adding another layer of musical pedigree. The overall sound is classic early 70s rock, with a catchy melody, a solid beat (naturally!), and a warm, inviting feel. It’s the kind of song that makes you tap your foot and maybe even sing along, a testament to its enduring appeal.
While “It Don’t Come Easy” was released as a standalone single and not initially featured on a studio album, it was later included on various Ringo Starr compilations, ensuring its continued accessibility for fans old and new. It remains one of his most beloved and recognizable songs, a testament to its timeless message and infectious charm. Listening to it today, one can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia for a simpler time, a time when straightforward honesty in music could climb the charts and offer a bit of grounded wisdom to the world. It’s a reminder that even amidst the complexities of life, some truths, like a good song, remain steadfast and true. Ringo Starr gave us more than just a catchy tune with “It Don’t Come Easy”; he gave us a little piece of enduring wisdom wrapped in a memorable melody.