The Beatles unveil a remarkable “final” song by utilizing AI technology to isolate the voice of John Lennon. Paul McCartney has revealed in an interview with the BBC that Lennon’s vocals, extracted from an unfinished 1978 demo, have been intricately woven into a track set to be released this year. Although the song remains unnamed, reports suggest it could be “Now and Then,” a composition penned by Lennon just two years prior to his untimely demise.
The Story Behind the Unfinished Track
The tape labeled “For Paul” contained several songs from Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono. It captured Lennon playing the piano and providing vocals for what McCartney believes has the potential to become a remarkable piece.
While two other songs from the tape, “Free as a Bird” and “Real Love,” were released by The Beatles in the 1990s, the third track, “Now and Then,” faced hurdles due to an intrusive mains hum that affected the recording quality. The challenges, coupled with George Harrison’s lack of enthusiasm, led to shelving the song’s release.
Technology Unleashes the Power of Lennon’s Voice
McCartney shared that AI technology played a pivotal role in the realization of the “final” song. With AI, the vocals and piano, originally recorded on the track, were meticulously separated, facilitating the integration of Lennon’s voice into newly-recorded music.
This innovative approach builds upon McCartney’s previous utilization of AI to isolate Lennon’s vocals, allowing for a remarkable “duet” performance at the 2022 Glastonbury Festival in the UK. The success of that collaboration fueled McCartney’s enthusiasm for breathing new life into the unfinished gem.
The Beatles Reuniting With John
The anticipation surrounding the release stems from its ability to create a virtual reunion between McCartney and Lennon. The emotional impact of McCartney “performing” alongside his late bandmate resonated deeply, underscoring the profound connection that transcends time and space.
Despite the virtual nature of this collaboration, Paul emphasized its significance, stating, “It’s John. We’re back together.” This intersection of music and technology serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of The Beatles and their enduring influence on generations of music lovers.