Ringo the 4th

Released in September 1977, Ringo the 4th marks a significant stylistic departure for Ringo Starr, moving away from the pop-rock and country influences of his earlier solo work toward a disco and R&B-influenced sound. Produced by Arif Mardin, the album features a sophisticated, studio-heavy production style typical of the era's dance music. The title is a playful reference to Ringo's status as the fourth Beatle, though it also reflects his fourth mainstream solo effort. The record includes several covers, notably a disco-fied version of Gamble and Huff's 'Drowning in the Sea of Love' and Robert Palmer's 'Sneaking Sally Through the Alley'. Critically, the album was a commercial disappointment upon release, as fans and critics struggled with Ringo's transition into dance music. However, it has since gained a cult following for its bold production and its status as a unique 'disco-Beatle' artifact. It remains a crucial, if polarizing, chapter in Starr's discography, showcasing his willingness to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s.