He was lured out of retirement to work with UK band Starsailor on their 2003 album Silence is Easy, his first project for 23 years.

BBC: Phil Spector: Pop innovator

The last time he tried was in 1989, when Kentucky Derby runner-up Easy Goer lost to Sunday Silence by a nose.

WSJ: Derby winner Orb arrives at Pimlico for Preakness

He hasn't had a horse in the race since 1989, when Easy Goer finished second to Sunday Silence, duplicating their Derby finish that year.

WSJ: Derby winner Orb prepares for Preakness run

Orb was only McGaughey's third Preakness starter, and first since 1989 when Easy Goer, also a 3-5 favorite, lost by a nose to Sunday Silence.

WSJ: Derby winner Orb disappoints in the Preakness