Introduction
The upcoming release of “Now and Then”, reported to be the final song by The Beatles, is a remarkable feat made possible through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This song has been pieced together from recordings spanning over four decades, with the late John Lennon’s piano and vocal performance from 1979 serving as the foundation.
Utilizing AI for Restoration
The recorded performances of John Lennon and George Harrison were initially incomplete due to various reasons. However, AI technology played a crucial role in salvaging these recordings. By extracting usable sections from Lennon’s 1979 recording and enhancing the sound quality of Harrison’s 1995 guitar tracks, AI made it possible to combine these elements seamlessly for the creation of “Now and Then”.
Collaboration and Release
In addition to Lennon and Harrison’s contributions, new recordings from Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr were integrated into the song. The upcoming release of “Now and Then” on 2nd November will mark a significant milestone for The Beatles, as it also includes their inaugural single “Love Me Do” as a B-side.
Insights and Production
Film director Peter Jackson’s company, WingNut Films, played a pivotal role in the production of “Now and Then”. Their expertise in source separation, showcased in projects such as the Lord of the Rings franchise, enabled the restoration and compilation of the recordings. Through extensive work on 60 hours of captured audio, AI was instrumental in isolating the individual instrument sounds and removing background noise.
Impact and Ethical Considerations
The transparent use of AI in this musical endeavor has sparked discussions on its broader implications. While it has allowed for the resurrection of The Beatles’ music, concerns about AI’s influence on the creative job market and its potential bypassing of copyright laws have been raised by experts like Jess Aslan from Goldsmiths, University of London.
Artificial intelligence has undoubtedly played a significant role in the revival of The Beatles’ music, but its broader impact on the creative industry warrants careful consideration.
