Agnes MaxwellOn March 3, 2026, Beatles legend Ringo Starr announced his new album "Long Long Road" set for release on April 24, 2026, proving that at 85 years old, the drummer shows no signs of slowing down. The announcement comes alongside news of his 2026 All Starr Band tour beginning May 28 in Temecula, California, raising important questions about how veteran musicians maintain their health—particularly their hearing—after decades of exposure to stage volumes that regularly exceed 100 decibels.
The Album That Proves Age Is Just a Number
"Long Long Road" marks Ringo Starr's second collaboration with legendary producer T Bone Burnett, following 2025's "Look Up". The album features an impressive lineup of contemporary artists including Billy Strings, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Molly Tuttle, and Sarah Jarosz, bridging generational gaps in American roots and rock music. The first single, "It's Been Too Long", was released alongside the announcement, showcasing Starr's enduring musical vitality and his ability to remain relevant in an ever-evolving music landscape.
For music fans and industry professionals alike, Starr's continued performance at 85 serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the physical demands placed on professional musicians throughout their careers. Born July 7, 1940, Starr has been performing for more than six decades, navigating the unique health challenges that come with a lifetime of touring and recording.
The Hidden Cost of Rock and Roll: Hearing Damage
While Ringo Starr's longevity is remarkable, the music industry has long grappled with a less celebrated reality: musicians face significantly higher risks of hearing damage than the general population. A 2014 German study found that musicians are four times more likely to develop noise-induced hearing loss compared to non-musicians, with drummers and rock musicians facing particularly elevated risks due to prolonged exposure to high decibel levels during rehearsals, recordings, and live performances.
In the United Kingdom, approximately one in eight people—around 10 million individuals—suffer from some form of hearing loss, according to NHS data. Among musicians and regular concert-goers, these numbers can be substantially higher. Tinnitus, the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects approximately 7.1 million adults in England alone, according to the British Tinnitus Association. For professional musicians, this condition can be particularly debilitating, affecting not only their quality of life but their ability to work and create music.
The cumulative effect of years of sound exposure cannot be understated. Unlike many occupational hazards that can be immediately addressed, hearing damage is often gradual, painless, and permanent. Many musicians don't realize the extent of their hearing loss until it significantly impacts their daily lives.
When Should Musicians See an ENT Specialist?
Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, also known as otolaryngologists, play a crucial role in protecting and preserving musicians' hearing health. But many performers delay seeking professional help until significant damage has occurred, operating under the misconception that hearing loss is simply an inevitable part of a music career.
Medical professionals recommend that musicians and regular concert attendees consult an ENT specialist if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears (tinnitus), especially after performances or rehearsals
- Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, particularly distinguishing individual voices
- A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears that doesn't resolve within a few hours
- Muffled hearing that persists beyond 24 hours after sound exposure
- Increased sensitivity to everyday sounds, a condition known as hyperacusis
- Needing to ask people to repeat themselves frequently or turning up television or music volume
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds like children's voices or birdsong
Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing permanent hearing damage. ENT specialists can conduct comprehensive hearing tests, including audiometry and tympanometry, provide custom-fitted ear protection designed specifically for performers, and develop monitoring plans to track hearing health over time. For musicians, specialized "musicians' earplugs" can reduce volume while maintaining sound fidelity, allowing performers to protect their hearing without compromising their ability to monitor their performance.
Preventive Measures for Music Lovers and Professionals
Professional musicians aren't the only ones at risk. Regular concert-goers, festival attendees, and even those who frequently listen to music through headphones or earbuds should take proactive steps to protect their hearing. Modern musician's earplugs are designed to reduce volume levels evenly across frequencies, preserving sound quality while protecting hearing—a far cry from the foam earplugs of previous generations that simply muffle all sound.
For amateur musicians, music teachers, sound engineers, and DJs who spend hours in rehearsal spaces, studios, or venues, annual hearing checks with a GP or ENT specialist should be considered as routine as dental check-ups. These professionals can establish a baseline of your hearing health and monitor for early signs of deterioration, catching problems before they become severe.
Simple protective measures include taking regular breaks during long rehearsals, positioning yourself away from speakers when possible, and adhering to the "60-60 rule" for headphone use: listen at no more than 60 percent volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
The ExpertZoom Perspective: Expert Care for Your Hearing
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you're experiencing hearing problems, tinnitus, or concerns about noise-induced hearing loss, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Whether you're a professional musician, a dedicated concert-goer, or simply concerned about your hearing health, speaking with a specialist can provide clarity and protection for your long-term auditory wellness. An ENT specialist can assess your individual risk factors, recommend appropriate protective measures, and create a monitoring plan tailored to your lifestyle and sound exposure levels.
If you don't have immediate access to an ENT specialist, starting with a general practitioner consultation is an excellent first step. Your GP can conduct initial hearing assessments, provide referrals to specialists when needed, and offer guidance on preventive care. Many hearing problems are treatable when caught early, making timely consultation essential.
As Ringo Starr continues to inspire us at 85 with new music and tours, his career serves as a reminder that protecting your health—including your hearing—is essential for long-term success in any field. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Take proactive steps today to ensure you can enjoy music for years to come.
Ready to take control of your hearing health? ExpertZoom connects you with qualified ENT specialists and general practitioners across the UK who can assess your hearing, provide personalized advice, and help you protect one of your most valuable senses. Book a consultation today.
