Bilgesu Erdem
A new page in The Beatles’ storied history turns as “Now and Then,” a track featuring the voice of the late John Lennon, emerges from the vaults, showcasing the fusion of legendary talent and cutting-edge technology. This posthumous release marks the band’s first new song since 1995, offering a bittersweet reminder of the group’s enduring legacy.
The track’s origins trace back to a Lennon demo from the ’70s, with George Harrison’s guitar work from ’95 woven in. Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, alongside modern machine learning tools, crafted the finishing touches, resulting in a unique blend of raw Beatles authenticity and technological sophistication.
The process of isolating Lennon’s vocals from the piano, a task previously hindered by technological constraints, was achieved using the same AI software that graced Peter Jackson’s “Get Back” documentary. The result is a slow ballad that, while unlikely to rival the group’s classic hits, features Lennon’s haunting vocals complemented by McCartney’s bass, Starr’s drumming, and a Harrison-esque guitar solo.
The song’s digital alchemy was sparked by the AI advancements that allowed McCartney and Starr to revisit the shelved project. This breakthrough, hailed by McCartney and embraced by John Lennon’s son, Sean Ono Lennon, heralds a new era where AI bridges the gap between unfinished past works and today’s production capabilities.
The integration of AI into music production has been met with mixed reactions, sparking debate on its role and impact on creative authenticity. While some artists have openly criticized the technology, others have embraced it, exploring its potential to innovate and transform musical expression.
AI’s influence extends beyond the Beatles’ swan song. It’s becoming a staple in the music industry, from photo processing to text suggestions and now to music composition. Its application ranges from the controversial to the widely accepted, redefining the boundaries between human creativity and artificial enhancement.
As AI continues to intertwine with the fabric of our daily lives, its entry into the music scene with industry giants like The Beatles and the Grammys signifies a shift that can no longer be dismissed as mere novelty. It represents a fascinating intersection of past and future, challenging our perceptions of artistry and prompting a reevaluation of technology’s place in the creative process.
The final verdict on AI’s place in music remains to be written, but as we witness its capabilities in breathing new life into lost melodies, it’s clear that its role is far more harmonious than discordant. The release of “Now and Then” is more than just a nostalgic trip; it’s a glimpse into a future where technology serves as a bridge to the past, unlocking a wealth of artistic possibilities.
