Ringo Starr on BBC Radio 2’s Open House – 31 March 1970
Tuesday 31 March 1970 | BBC Broadcasting House, London | Beatles History
On 31 March 1970, Ringo Starr appeared on the live BBC Radio 2 show Open House to promote his debut solo album, Sentimental Journey.
The interview was conducted in Studio B9 at Broadcasting House, London, and the 55-minute programme was broadcast live. Open House was a music request show, and Starr read several listeners’ letters in between songs while being interviewed by host Pete Murray.
Discussion of Solo Projects
During the interview, Starr discussed the solo activities of each Beatle. He mentioned working with George Harrison, visiting Paul McCartney at home, and seeing John Lennon whenever they were both at Apple. He also hinted at the possibility of the Beatles reuniting once their schedules allowed.
Live Broadcast Highlights
A small on-air mishap occurred when the wrong song was cued: Mary Hopkin’s Knock Knock Who’s There? played instead of Rufus Thomas’ Do The Funky Chicken. Following an apology from Murray, Starr read a listener’s request, and the correct song was played.
Starr also read a letter from a woman trying to reconnect with former nursing classmates from 1964, after which he played The Beatles’ I Want To Hold Your Hand and encouraged listeners to focus on the present by purchasing his new album.
Personal Touches and Show Closing
Ringo greeted his sons, Zak and Jason, while introducing the Boston Pops’ rendition of Ravel’s Boléro. The programme concluded with Joe Dolan’s You’re Such A Good-Looking Woman, and host Pete Murray wished Starr success with both Sentimental Journey and the forthcoming Beatles album Let It Be.
Location: BBC Broadcasting House, London
Portland Place, London, England
Home of BBC Radio 2, where Ringo Starr recorded his live interview for Open House on 31 March 1970.
FAQs
What was the purpose of Ringo Starr’s appearance?
To promote his debut solo album Sentimental Journey on BBC Radio 2’s Open House.
Where was the interview held?
Studio B9 at BBC Broadcasting House, London.
What Beatles topics did Starr discuss?
He talked about each Beatle’s solo projects and hinted at a possible future reunion.
Were there any on-air mishaps?
Yes, the wrong song was initially played, but the issue was quickly corrected.
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