The Beatles are perhaps one of the most markable names in the music industry, having a lengthy and successful career that is undoubtedly still recognized and honored. The band’s most recent activity since their ultimate split in 1974 is their last song, “Now and Then.” Released in early November of this year, the group’s last song is the product of the entire band, having sat in the demos since the 1970’s. “Now and Then” was written and sung by John Lennon, worked on by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, and now over four decades later was completed and released by the band’s remaining members, Paul and Ringo.  

The original demo of the song was recorded by John Lennon on his piano in his home, nestled in New York City, in the 1970s. Following his death, his widow, Yoko Ono, gave three demos, including “Now and Then,” to the remaining band members to honor Lennons life and legacy. The other two demos were polished and released in the late 1990’s in accordance with The Beatles Anthology, the documentary series on the Beatles’ career. The other song that Lennon recorded, titled “Now and Then” as we know it presently, was tucked away to be later rediscovered by the band’s remaining members.  

Perhaps the most fascinating part of the song’s completion and release was the technology that was used to highlight the song’s original power. In 2021, a Beatles documentary titled, “The Beatles: Get Back,” won multiple awards and eventually caused the cascade of events to polish and release the song “Now and Then.” Peter Jackson, who produced the documentary, led a team of extremely talented individuals by stripping the original demo of instrumentals to completely expose late John Lennon’s vocals. Upon hearing the stripped-down recording with Lennon’s exposed vocals, the band felt an extreme wave of emotion, gratitude and inspiration to finish the recording and pay tribute to their late band member. Lennon’s son, Sean Ono Lennon, commented in an interview on the recording of the song, calling it “incredibly touching” to hear the band working together. Sean deemed the song a “time capsule,” saying it all felt very meant to be. The song’s impact is an ultimate tribute and emotional masterpiece that pays homage to the band’s career. Aspects of grief and love are intertwined in the song’s lyrics, highlighting both the band’s gains and their losses.  

The Beatles’ last song “Now and Then” is arguably one of the most moving, emotional masterpieces of our time. Music fans shift their eyes to the band’s last contribution to the industry, perfectly capping their monumental career with a beautifully composed song. The song is available on all streaming platforms and in multiple different forms.  

Sadie Blace is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].