Now And Then – The Beatles
“On November 2, 2023, the Beatles unveiled ‘Now and Then’ as a poignant double A-side single, coupled with a fresh mix of their inaugural release, ‘Love Me Do’ (1962). Marked as the band’s swan song, this track holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Scheduled for inclusion in the expanded reissue of the 1973 compilation ‘1967–1970’ on November 10, 2023, ‘Now-and-Then’ stands as a testament to the enduring creativity of the iconic quartet.
The genesis of ‘Now-and-Then’ dates back to 1978 when John Lennon penned its initial incarnation. Last year, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the surviving Beatles, meticulously crafted and completed the composition, adding the final brushstrokes to Lennon’s vision. More than just a song, ‘Now-and-Then’ is a musical odyssey that transcends time, rooted in the heartfelt connections and artistic partnerships that continue to fuel the spirit of the Fab Four.
The journey to breathe life into ‘Now-and-Then’ was no small feat. In the mid-90s, McCartney, Starr, and George Harrison, joined by Jeff Lynne, laid down instrumental backings, attempting to revive the song. Yet, challenges arose, with Lennon’s piano occasionally overpowering his vocals on the original demo. The elusive piece of musical history seemed destined to remain incomplete.
Enter 2022, and fate intervened. Under the skilled hands of Peter Jackson and his team, employing cutting-edge AI technology during the making of the documentary ‘Get Back,’ the intricate layers of ‘Now and Then’ were unraveled. Through meticulous efforts, Lennon’s vocals were meticulously separated from the piano track, breathing new life into the original recording. The Beatles, reunited in spirit and sound, added their collective magic, transforming this track into a testament to their unyielding creative curiosity and shared fascination with technology.
This grand finale, ‘Now-and-Then,’ bears the weight of the Beatles’ legacy. The emotional chorus, where McCartney and Lennon harmonize, singing, ‘I miss you,’ encapsulates the bittersweet essence of this musical masterpiece. With the contributions of McCartney, Starr, co-producer Giles Martin, and others, the song now stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the most influential band in the annals of pop music history. In this final composition, listeners can hear the echoes of a bygone era, woven into the timeless fabric of the Beatles’ unrivaled musical journey.”
