In an unprecedented musical event, The Beatles have announced the release of “Now And Then,” known as the last-ever Beatles song, featuring contributions from all four original members, even decades after their active years as a band. This historic moment marks a poignant end to the band’s illustrious journey, offering fans a chance to hear John, Paul, George, and Ringo together for one final song.
“Now And Then” – A Historic Release
The song, written and sung by John Lennon and later developed by Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, has been completed by Paul and Ringo over four decades after its inception. “Now And Then” is set to be released worldwide at 2pm GMT / 10am EDT / 7am PDT on Thursday, November 2, by Apple Corps Ltd./Capitol/UMe. This release is not just a new Beatles song; it’s an emotional homage, a creation that involved technological innovation, and a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.
The Journey of “Now And Then”
The story of “Now And Then” began in the late 1970s when John Lennon recorded a demo of the song. In the mid-90s, the remaining Beatles members attempted to finalize the song, but technological limitations of the time prevented its completion. However, recent advancements in audio technology allowed for the isolation of John’s vocals from the original demo, enabling Paul and Ringo to finalize the song with clarity and integrity.
A Full-Circle Moment
The release pairs “Now And Then” with “Love Me Do,” the band’s debut UK single from 1962, symbolizing the Beatles’ journey from their first steps to their last. The new music video for “Now And Then” is set to debut on Friday, November 3, adding a visual dimension to this historic moment.
Documentary Insight
Adding to the anticipation, a 12-minute documentary titled “Now And Then – The Last Beatles Song,” written and directed by Oliver Murray, will premiere on November 1. This film will provide fans with an intimate look into the creation of the song, featuring exclusive footage and commentary from Paul, Ringo, and others close to the band.
Reviving the Red and Blue Albums
In conjunction with the release of “Now And Then,” The Beatles’ iconic 1962-1966 (‘The Red Album’) and 1967-1970 (‘The Blue Album’) collections are being reissued in expanded, remixed forms. These collections have served as essential introductions to The Beatles’ music for fans worldwide, and their enhancement further preserves the band’s musical heritage.
A Legacy Etched in Time
The release of “Now And Then” is more than a new addition to The Beatles’ discography. It’s a symbolic reunion, a technological triumph, and a gift to fans who have kept the Beatles’ legacy alive through generations. As Paul McCartney aptly reflected, the clear sound of John’s voice made it feel like he was right there, making this posthumous collaboration an emotional journey for everyone involved.
This historic moment is not just a celebration of new music but also a reflection on the journey of one of the world’s most beloved bands. With the release of “Now And Then,” The Beatles remind us of their timeless impact, the power of technological advancements in preserving art, and the emotional connections that music can foster across time and space.
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