The Beatles drop their ‘final’ tune, aided by AI.
The Final Beatles Recording: “Now and Then”
Prepare to be amazed! The long-awaited and almost mythical final Beatles recording has finally arrived. Titled “Now and Then,” this four-minute and eight-second track is a true gem, marking the first and only original Beatles recording of the 21st century. It’s a musical time capsule that takes us back to the iconic sound of the Fab Four.
“I know it’s true / It’s all because of you / And if I make it through / It’s all because of you.”
More than four decades have passed since John Lennon’s tragic murder and two since George Harrison’s untimely death. Now, the very last Beatles song has been released as a double A-side single with their debut hit, “Love Me Do,” which first captivated audiences in 1962.
“Now and Then” comes from a collection of unreleased demos written by Lennon in the 1970s. These demos were generously given to his former bandmates by Yoko Ono. The tapes were used to create the songs “Free As a Bird” and “Real Love,” which were released in the mid-1990s. However, technical limitations prevented the completion of “Now and Then” at the time.
But now, in 2022, the remaining Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, have harnessed the power of cutting-edge technology to bring this masterpiece to life. Using the same restoration methods employed in the making of the acclaimed documentary series “The Beatles: Get Back,” they were able to isolate Lennon’s voice from the original cassette and complete “Now and Then” using machine learning.
In a short film titled “The Beatles — Now And Then — The Last Beatles Song,” released on Wednesday, the creation of the track is detailed. McCartney explains that on the original tape, Lennon’s voice was hidden, and the piano was difficult to hear due to the technological limitations of the time. However, with the advancements in technology, they were able to overcome these obstacles and give the world the gift of “Now and Then.”
McCartney describes the experience of working on Beatles music in 2023 as ”wow” and emphasizes the band’s fascination with state-of-the-art technology. He acknowledges that the use of artificial intelligence may be both scary and exciting, but it has allowed them to continue the Beatles’ legacy in a way that would have undoubtedly intrigued the band themselves.
Ringo Starr confirms that the rumors of fabricating Lennon’s contributions to the track are false, stating, “Like we would do that anyway.” He proudly declares that “Now and Then” is the last track ever to feature the four Beatles together: John, Paul, George, and Ringo.
McCartney and Starr meticulously crafted the track, building upon Lennon’s demo. They incorporated guitar parts written by George Harrison during the 1995 sessions and added a slide guitar solo in his distinctive style. McCartney and Starr contributed their bass and drum parts, while a string arrangement was expertly crafted with the assistance of Giles Martin, son of the late Beatles producer George Martin. The result is a musical masterpiece that harkens back to the ambitiousness of iconic Beatles tracks like “Strawberry Fields,” “Yesterday,” and “I Am the Walrus.”
On Friday, the official music video for “Now and Then,” directed by Peter Jackson, will premiere on the Beatles’ YouTube channel. The video features footage of McCartney and Starr performing, as well as long-forgotten film from the 1995 recording sessions. Additionally, it includes precious home movie footage provided by Lennon’s son Sean and Olivia Harrison, George’s wife. And to top it all off, there are a few seconds of the earliest known film of The Beatles, wearing their iconic leather suits, courtesy of Pete Best, the band’s original drummer.
Prepare to be captivated by this extraordinary piece of music history. “Now and Then” is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Beatles and their unwavering impact on the world of music.
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In what ways does “Now and Then” reflect the Beatles’ enduring legacy and impact on the world
Ation with exploring new techniques and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music production. He expresses gratitude to Yoko Ono for sharing the demos, stating that it was “amazing” to hear Lennon’s voice again and continue the creative process with him.
“Now and Then” features Lennon’s haunting vocals, accompanied by McCartney on piano and Starr on drums. The song has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of the Beatles’ earlier works, yet with a modern twist. The lyrics reflect a sense of gratitude and appreciation, possibly referencing their enduring legacy and the impact their music has had on the world.
The release of “Now and Then” has generated immense excitement and anticipation among Beatles fans worldwide. The single is accompanied by a stunning animated music video, which incorporates archival footage and new visuals that pay homage to the band’s iconic imagery and artistic style.
While some may argue that posthumously releasing recordings is a controversial practice, it is undeniable that “Now and Then” adds another chapter to the Beatles’ remarkable legacy. It serves as a bittersweet tribute to Lennon and Harrison, celebrating the enduring talent and creative spirit of the Beatles as a whole.
As we listen to “Now and Then,” one can’t help but reflect on the profound impact the Beatles have had on the music industry and popular culture. Their influence spans generations and continues to inspire countless musicians around the world. With this final recording, the Beatles reaffirm their status as one of the greatest and most influential bands in history.
“Now and Then” serves as a reminder that even though the Beatles’ journey as a band has come to an end, their music will forever resonate with audiences, transcending time and leaving an indelible mark on the world. It is a testament to the enduring power of their artistry and the lasting impact they have had on the collective consciousness of music lovers everywhere.
In conclusion, the release of the final Beatles recording, “Now and Then,” is a momentous occasion for fans and music enthusiasts alike. This long-awaited track encapsulates the essence and magic of the Beatles, showcasing their ability to create timeless music that continues to captivate and inspire. It is a fitting farewell from a band that has left an unparalleled legacy in the annals of music history. Now, as we listen to “Now and Then,” we are reminded once again of the extraordinary talent and everlasting influence of the Fab Four.
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