Why “Don’T Pass Me By” Took Ringo Starr Five Years To Finish Writing

March 20, 2025

Ringo Starr sat on the edge of his bed, a guitar resting on his knee, surrounded by crumpled sheets of paper. It had been five long years since he first picked up his pen to write “Don’t Pass Me By.” He could still remember the excitement of those early days, when melodies danced in his mind like fireflies in a summer night. But as time went on, creativity began to feel like a distant star, shining bright but just out of reach. The pressures of fame, the weight of expectations, and the echoes of his past with The Beatles loomed over him, making it hard to find the right words.

The journey began in the late 1960s, during a time when Ringo was still grappling with the aftermath of the Beatles’ breakup. He had always been the drummer, the steady heartbeat of the band, but now he was faced with the daunting task of stepping into the spotlight on his own. At first, writing felt like a joyful play, a way to express his emotions after years of being in the shadow of his legendary bandmates. But as he poured his heart into the song, self-doubt crept in like a dark cloud. Ringo worried if the world would even want to hear what he had to say.

Days turned into months, and months turned into years. Ringo found himself questioning everything. One moment he felt inspired, writing a line that made him chuckle, and the next he would crumple it up, convinced it wasn’t good enough. He battled frustration, but amidst the struggle, he also discovered moments of clarity. One evening, while watching the sunset, he was reminded of the simplicity and beauty of life. That’s when he wrote the chorus of “Don’t Pass Me By”—a message about cherishing every moment and the importance of holding on to love. It was a revelation that sparked him to pick up his pen once again.

During those five years, Ringo also faced personal challenges. He dealt with the pressures of being in the public eye while trying to find his own identity. With his struggles, he learned that everyone, no matter how famous, experiences doubt and fear. He drew inspiration from his friends in the music industry, who encouraged him to keep going. They would often remind him that the best art comes from authentic experiences, and that his voice mattered. Slowly, he began to believe them, allowing himself to pour his soul into the song.

Finally, in 1970, Ringo completed “Don’t Pass Me By.” The moment felt surreal, a culmination of all the laughter, tears, and resilience he had experienced. When the song was released on his solo album, it was met with a warm reception. Fans embraced the sincerity of his words, and it became a reminder that even a world-class musician could struggle but ultimately triumph. “Don’t Pass Me By” wasn’t just a song; it was a testament to Ringo’s journey—a celebration of perseverance, proving that sometimes, the most beautiful things take time to create.

With each strum of his guitar and a heartfelt rendition in front of his fans, Ringo found healing. The song became a part of his legacy, teaching not just himself, but everyone who listened, the importance of persistence and the joy of music. Through the ups and downs, Ringo had learned that the road may be long and winding, but when you finally reach the destination, the view is breathtaking. His journey was a reminder that no matter how long it takes, following your passion can lead to something truly wonderful.