The Beatles’ new song “Now & Then” is possibly my favorite of all time. bug statement, but I think it’s warranted. In a time when music has been pushed head first into an electronic world, The Beatles put their touch on it seemingly resurrecting the dead in a brilliant emotional melody that is very much their own sound in a new world. The song has evoked mixed emotions from critics and audiences alike though. The song, penned by John Lennon in the late 1970s, was recorded in a demo form at his residence in New York City, embodying the apologetic love-themed lyricism typical of Lennon’s later work. The song’s release after decades, marked as the final song by the iconic band, has been met with a medley of nostalgia, reverence, and critical analysis.
The song is praised for the blend of John Lennon’s voice filled with yearning, harmoniously intertwined with Paul McCartney’s vocals in the middle eight, creating a sound that technology has allowed to be more real and superior. The haunting essence of the song has been recognized as a touching farewell, evoking tears and memories of the timeless Beatles era long past now. However, some critics find the song to be a poignant yet limp attempt, possibly hinting at the stretched effort to revive the magic.
Despite the variance in opinions, “Now & Then” symbolizes more than just a song. It represents a journey, an era, and a rekindling of the Beatles’ magic after a hiatus marked by tragic losses. The song had been set aside during the Anthology project, and it took the aid of artificial intelligence in 2022 to separate Lennon’s vocals from the demo tape for its completion.
Adding to the narrative is the Disney+ 12-minute documentary “Now And Then – The Last Beatles Song,” directed by Oliver Murray, which unveils the backstory of this song with exclusive footage and commentary from Paul, Ringo, George, Sean Ono Lennon, and Peter Jackson. It’s not merely a song but a commemoration of the band’s monumental journey, a tribute to the lost members, and a reflection of the indelible Beatles legacy.
The Beatles’ history is marked with groundbreaking music, evolving dynamics, and the irreplaceable loss of John Lennon and George Harrison. The unfulfilled journey of “Now & Then” mirrors the band’s unfinished endeavors and the enduring effort to keep the Beatles’ essence alive.
As of now, there are no known upcoming tours for the Beatles, which aligns with the symbolic closure provided by “Now & Then.”
This new release, along with the documentary, offers both a nostalgic reflection and a closer look at the band’s journey, making it a significant chapter in the Beatles’ enduring legacy.
