About the song
## Ringo – Lorne Greene (1962)
**A Timeless Ballad of Love and Loss**
“Ringo” is a timeless ballad that has captured hearts since its release in 1962, performed by the legendary Canadian actor and singer, Lorne Greene. This poignant song, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Greene’s rich baritone voice delivers the song with a raw emotional intensity that draws listeners in from the very first note. The lyrics, penned by the talented songwriting duo of Hal David and Burt Bacharach, paint a vivid picture of a man struggling to cope with the loss of his beloved.
The song begins with a simple, yet powerful guitar riff that sets the melancholic tone. As Greene’s vocals enter, we are immediately transported into the world of the heartbroken protagonist. The lyrics express a deep sense of longing and regret, as the singer reminisces about happier times with his lost love.
“Ringo” is a song that evokes a wide range of emotions. It is both a love song and a lament, a celebration of the beauty of human connection and a mournful reflection on the pain of loss. The lyrics are filled with evocative imagery, such as “a lonely star that’s lost its way” and “a broken heart that’s torn apart.” These images serve to enhance the emotional impact of the song and help listeners to connect with the protagonist’s experiences.
The song’s arrangement is both simple and effective. The guitar riff provides a steady foundation, while Greene’s vocals take center stage. There are no elaborate instrumental solos or complex harmonies, but the song’s simplicity is its strength. It allows the lyrics and Greene’s powerful performance to shine through.
“Ringo” is a song that has stood the test of time. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. It is a song about love, loss, and the human experience, and it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you are a longtime fan of Lorne Greene or simply appreciate great music, “Ringo” is a song that is well worth listening to.
Video
Lyrics
He lay face down in the desert sand
Clutching his six-gun in his hand
Shot from behind, I thought he was dead
But under his heart was an ounce of lead
But a spark still burned so I used my knife
And late that night I saved the life of Ringo
I nursed him till the danger passed
The days went by, he mended fast
Then from dawn till setting sun
He practiced with that deadly gun
And hour on hour I watched in awe
No human being could match the draw of Ringo
One day we rode the mountain crest
And I went east and he went west
I took to law and wore a star
While he spread terror near and far
With lead and blood he gained such fame
All through the West they feared the name of Ringo
I knew someday I’d face the test
Which one of us would be the best
And sure enough the word came down
That he was holed up in the town
I left the posse out in the street
And I went in alone to meet Ringo
They said my speed was next to none
But my lightning draw had just begun
When I heard a blast that stung my wrist
The gun went flying from my fist
And I was looking down the bore
Of the deadly .44 of Ringo
They say that was the only time
That anyone had seen him smile
He slowly lowered his gun and then
He said to me “We’re even, friend”
And so at last I understood
That there was still a spark of good in Ringo
I blocked the path of his retreat
He turned and stepped into the street
A dozen guns spit fire and lead
A moment later, he lay dead
The town began to shout and cheer
Nowhere was there shed a tear for Ringo
The story spread throughout the land
That I had beaten Ringo’s hand
And it was just the years, they say
That made me put my guns away
But on his grave they can’t explain
The tarnished star above the name of Ringo