Studio Two, EMI Studios, Abbey Road
Producer: George Martin
Engineer: Geoff Emerick
A demo recording of Louis Armstrong’s 1930 hit ‘Blue Turning Grey Over You’ had been taped for Ringo Starr’s debut studio album Sentimental Journey on 28 November 1969. On this day a 17-piece ensemble performed the backing track and Starr added his lead vocals.
The song had been arranged by Oliver Nelson for Sentimental Journey. The instruments included trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piano, bass guitar and drums.
The backing track was recorded in nine takes between 9.30am and 1pm. Once completed, Starr overdubbed his lead vocals from 1-2.30pm. The song was then mixed into stereo, with work finishing at 4pm.
Two months later, on 24 February 1970, Starr added a second lead vocal part. The final version was an edit of various different mixes.
Also on this day...
- 2024: Paul McCartney live: Paris La Défense Arena, Paris
- 2023: Paul McCartney live: Arena MRV, Belo Horizonte
- 2023: Paul McCartney announces Band On The Run 50th anniversary editions
- 1995: UK single release: Free As A Bird
- 1989: Paul McCartney live: Rosemont Horizon, Rosemont
- 1974: George Harrison live: Olympia Stadium, Detroit
- 1972: US single release: Hi, Hi, Hi by Wings
- 1969: Recording, mixing: Item 1 and Item 2 by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
- 1969: George Harrison live: City Hall, Sheffield with Delaney & Bonnie
- 1969: Television: 24 Hours: The World Of John And Yoko – day three
- 1968: George Harrison invites Hells Angels to Apple
- 1965: The Beatles live: City Hall, Newcastle
- 1964: UK album release: Beatles For Sale
- 1962: Television: Tuesday Rendezvous
Want more? Visit the Beatles history section.