On This Day in Beatles History: Recording ‘It Don’t Come Easy’ – 11 March 1970
On Wednesday 11 March 1970, Ringo Starr continued work on the song ‘It Don’t Come Easy’ during a recording session believed to have taken place at Trident Studios in London. The session was produced by George Harrison, who was closely involved in the creation of the track.
The recording of ‘It Don’t Come Easy’ became a surprisingly long and complex process, involving multiple recording sessions and several attempts to perfect the song before its eventual release.
Early recording attempts
Work on the song had begun earlier in February 1970, when Starr recorded two early versions on 18 and 19 February. These initial attempts were ultimately discarded, and the track was re-recorded on 8 March 1970.
The 8 March session produced the basic backing track that would form the foundation of the final recording.
The 11 March session
A follow-up session is believed to have taken place on 11 March 1970, likely at Trident Studios, although documentation of the session is limited. During this period the song began to take shape as additional overdubs and refinements were added to the recording.
George Harrison played a major role in the development of the track, contributing musically and helping guide the production.
Completing the recording
Although the basic track had been recorded in March 1970, the song was not completed until October 1970, when further overdubs were added.
These additional elements included:
- Backing vocals by Tom Evans and Pete Ham of Badfinger
- A brass section overdub that gave the recording its distinctive sound
- The extended recording process reflected the careful attention given to the arrangement and production.
Release of the single
After months of recording and overdubbing, ‘It Don’t Come Easy’ was finally released as a single in April 1971. The song became Ringo Starr’s debut UK solo single and achieved significant commercial success.
The track remains one of the most celebrated songs of Starr’s solo career and a notable example of the collaboration between him and George Harrison following the breakup of The Beatles.
Why 11 March 1970 matters
The 11 March 1970 session represents an important stage in the development of ‘It Don’t Come Easy’. The song would go on to become one of Ringo Starr’s most enduring recordings and demonstrated the continuing musical partnership between members of The Beatles even as their group career was drawing to a close.
Recording Session – Quick Facts
Date: 11 March 1970
Artist: Ringo Starr
Song: ‘It Don’t Come Easy’
Studio: Likely Trident Studios, London
Producer: George Harrison
Notable contributors: Tom Evans and Pete Ham (Badfinger backing vocals)
Studio Location
Trident Studios – London
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