The Beatles: 10 Perfect Non-Single Tracks
5. Octopus's Garden: Abbey Road (1969)
Ringo Starr's contribution to the Beatles is often under appreciated. His approach to drumming was exactly what was needed for this band; never one for flashy drums rolls or prolonged solos, Ringo simply stayed in the pocket. His approach was to follow the singer, laying a solid foundation for the rest of the group to build on. He performed the role masterfully.
But let's not forget he also gave use some damn fine songs. Was he the most prolific songwriter in the group? Definitely not. Did his songs tackle themes as sophisticated as the others? Again, the answer is no. But when he did come through with the goods, it was simply joyous to behold.
It says a lot about Ringo that during all the turmoil and inner band strife during the Get Back sessions, he came through with a song celebrating friendship. Ringo was inspired to write "Octopus's Garden" after he took a trip to Sardinia to escape the mounting tensions in the band. The picture he paints certainly sounds like an ideal getaway, but it also represents his yearning for harmony.