Joe Walsh and Ringo Starr, two celebrated musicians connected by family ties, have shared a unique creative partnership that stretches back to the early 1980s. Though they first met during a jam session in the mid-1970s, their formal collaboration began several years later, leading to a series of co-written songs across Starr’s solo career. Their relationship deepened not only through music but also when Walsh married Marjorie Bach, Starr’s wife’s sister, in 2008, making them brothers-in-law.
Walsh’s musical journey includes his time with the Eagles and collaborations with many notable artists such as B.B. King, Lionel Richie, and Sheryl Crow. Despite his busy career, he maintained close ties with Starr, even joining Starr’s All-Starr band briefly in 1989 and appearing intermittently over the years. Walsh has often expressed his gratitude for this family connection, saying he feels truly blessed to be part of the family that came with his wife.
Their songwriting partnership began notably on Starr’s ninth solo album, “Old Wave,” released in 1983. Walsh produced the album and co-wrote five tracks alongside Starr (credited under his birth name Richard Starkey), including “In My Car,” “Going Down,” “Hopeless,” and “Alibi.” They also collaborated with other musicians such as John Entwistle of The Who. Walsh even contributed a solo composition titled “Be My Baby” to the album.
The collaboration continued over the decades with songs like “Fill in the Blanks” on Starr’s 2010 album “Y Not,” where Walsh not only co-wrote but also played guitar. This album featured other notable artists including Paul McCartney, who contributed vocals and bass. In 2015, Walsh co-wrote “Bridges” for Starr’s album “Postcards from Paradise,” an album celebrated for its diverse group of guest songwriters.
In 2019, Walsh once again joined forces with Starr on the track “Gotta Get Up to Get Down,” from the album “What’s My Name.” The song stands out with Walsh even performing a rap segment. This album also featured contributions from McCartney, including a cover of John Lennon’s “Grow Old With Me,” highlighting the enduring connections among these legendary musicians.
Their partnership reflects a blend of professional respect and family bonds that have enriched both their musical legacies. Walsh continues to contribute guitar work to Starr’s projects, including playing on the 2025 country album “Look Up.” Their story exemplifies how shared creativity within a family can produce memorable music that spans generations.
