The Beatles’ Emotional Farewell: Now and Then, their Final Song, Set for Release

The Beatles to release emotional ‘final song’, Now and Then, next week

Introduction

After more than 50 years since The Beatles broke up, the iconic band is set to release their “last song” titled “Now And Then.” The song is based on a 1970s demo recording by John Lennon and was completed last year by Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Starr. It will premiere on Thursday, November 2nd, and will also feature on newly-remastered versions of The Beatles‘ Red and Blue albums, due on November 10th.

Reviving the Past

The making of “Now And Then” is a result of advancements in audio technology, specifically AI and machine learning. The release of the Beatles‘ documentary, “Get Back” in 2021, led to the development of new software that could “de-mix” mono recordings from the 1970s to isolate individual instruments and vocals. This technology was used to create a new mix of the band’s album “Revolver” last year. The same process has now been applied to the original tape of “Now And Then,” removing tape hiss and electrical mains noise while preserving Lennon’s performance.

Completing the Song

Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Starr took on the task of completing the song last year. They added new vocals, drums, bass, guitar, and piano to the original recording. Additionally, electric and acoustic guitar parts recorded by George Harrison in 1995 were incorporated. Giles Martin, son of legendary Beatles producer George Martin, also contributed to the song by adding backing vocals from the original recordings of “Here, There And Everywhere,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and “Because,” creating an extra layer of nostalgia.

An Emotional Experience

Completing “Now And Then” was an emotional journey for the surviving members of The Beatles. Sir Paul McCartney described the experience of hearing John Lennon’s crystal clear voice on the recording as “quite emotional.” He expressed excitement at still working on Beatles music in 2023 and preparing to release a new song that the public hasn’t heard before. Sir Ringo Starr added that working on the song felt like John Lennon was present in the room, describing it as a “surreal” and “far out” experience.

A Journey into the Beatles‘ Legacy

“Now And Then” was originally written by John Lennon after the Beatles‘ breakup in 1970 and has circulated as a bootleg for years. The song was given to Sir Paul McCartney by Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, on a cassette labeled “For Paul.” The cassette also contained early versions of “Free As A Bird” and “Real Love,” which the remaining Beatles released as singles in 1995 and 1996 as part of their Anthology project. The band previously attempted to record “Now And Then,” but the session was abandoned due to the quality of Lennon’s original recording.

Editorial and Philosophical Discussion

The release of “Now And Then” raises intriguing questions about the nature of artistic collaboration and the legacy of iconic musicians. The ability to use AI technology to extract Lennon’s vocals from an old cassette and complete the song decades later poses difficult philosophical questions about the authentic representation of an artist’s work. While the surviving Beatles have described the experience as emotional and exciting, some may question whether releasing a new song constructed from a demo recording can truly capture the essence of John Lennon’s artistic vision.

Furthermore, delving into the band’s past and resurrecting their music through technological advancements highlights the timeless appeal and enduring popularity of The Beatles. The fact that new generations continue to discover and engage with their music speaks to the profound impact the band has had on popular culture. The release of an “unheard” song by The Beatles in 2023 demonstrates the enduring legacy of their music and the continued fascination with their creative output.

Advice for Listeners and Fans

For fans eagerly anticipating the release of “Now And Then,” it is an opportunity to embark on a journey into the band’s history. Listening to the song with an appreciation for the technical wizardry involved in its creation can enhance the experience, as it reflects the continued evolution of music production methods. Additionally, exploring the accompanying documentary about the making of the song and the six-part podcast on the story of The Beatles can provide valuable insights into the band’s creative process and their impact on popular music.

The release of “Now And Then” is a reminder of the enduring power of music and the ability of iconic artists to transcend time. As listeners, we have the privilege of immersing ourselves in the musical legacy of The Beatles and appreciating the emotional and artistic impact they continue to have on generations past and present.