In an emotionally charged moment in music history, the legendary rock band The Beatles have bestowed a final musical gift upon the world with the release of “Now and Then,” a track infused with the distinct vocals of the iconic John Lennon. More than four decades since it was penned by Lennon himself, his voice resonates with the heartfelt lyrics, “I know it’s true. It’s all because of you. And if I make it through, it’s all because of you,” a sentiment that reverberates deeply with fans and admirers.
The song, which premiered at 2 p.m. GMT on Thursday, marks a significant chapter in The Beatles’ storied legacy. It originated from a home recording by Lennon in the twilight of the 1970s in New York City, his final residence. Following Lennon’s tragic death in 1980, a demo of the song was entrusted to his fellow Beatles Yoko Ono in 1994. However, it would take nearly 30 more years for the song to fully materialize.
In a companion documentary shared on YouTube, viewers are taken behind the scenes into the journey of “Now and Then.” George Harrison, who passed away in 2001, once reflected on hearing Lennon’s voice through the recording as a precious moment, saying it brought them close to feeling his presence once again. Ringo Starr, the band’s drummer, echoed this sentiment.
The initial attempts to complete the song stalled in 1995 due to technical challenges in isolating Lennon’s voice from the piano on the track. As McCartney admits, the project was shelved, awaiting a time when technology could catch up with their vision.
That moment came with the advent of AI, which played a crucial role in separating Lennon’s vocals for the Peter Jackson-directed docuseries “The Beatles: Get Back.” Inspired, McCartney and Starr revisited the project, with McCartney overlaying new bass lines, Starr contributing drums, and additional strings recorded by unsuspecting musicians at Capitol Studios.
In honor of Harrison, his original guitar work from 1995 was preserved, and a new slide guitar solo was crafted as a tribute. McCartney, in awe of the technology that brought their dream to fruition, highlighted The Beatles’ affinity for innovation and the special significance of “Now and Then” as possibly the last Beatles song — a genuine collaboration of all four members.
Sean Lennon, John Lennon’s son, shared a touching sentiment about the experience of hearing his father alongside his bandmates after so many years, a powerful symbol of their enduring bond.
The Beatles, who disbanded over half a century ago, continue to leave an indelible mark on the music world. Their accolades include seven Grammy Awards, a litany of chart-topping hits like “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be,” and the inception of “Beatlemania,” which saw their popularity surge to unprecedented heights globally. “Now and Then” emerges not just as a new addition to their impressive catalog, but as a timeless ode to their collective genius and a final echoing note of The Beatles’ enduring harmony.