The Beatles Release Final Song with the Help of AI
The Beatles have released their “last song” on November 2, which features vocal tracks of the late John Lennon created using artificial intelligence (AI). The track, titled “Now and Then,” was released by Universal Music Group and was accompanied by a short documentary explaining how it was developed using new technologies.
Using AI to Separate Vocal Tracks
The documentary reveals that director Peter Jackson created software while working on his Beatles documentary, “Get Back,” that allowed the team to separate Lennon’s vocals from his piano part in the original cassette tape recording. This technology is based on machine learning and can split different components of a soundtrack into separate tracks.
Teaching AI to Recognize Voices
In an interview, co-producer Giles Martin explained that AI can be trained to recognize voices. This means that even in a crowded room with background noise, the AI can extract specific voices from a conversation. Paul McCartney expressed his approval of this technology and sent John Lennon’s voice from the original cassette to be used in the new track.
AI and Recording Technology
In the video, John Lennon’s son Sean Ono Lennon commented that his dad would have loved experimenting with recording technology. McCartney also shared his excitement about working on Beatles music in 2023 and using state-of-the-art technology that the band would have been interested in.
Reactions from Fans and Critics
After McCartney’s post on social media, fans praised the new track as beautiful and a perfect way to end The Beatles’ discography. Some fans even expressed hope for an AI-powered hologram concert featuring The Beatles. However, there were also critics who questioned the authenticity of using AI in music creation. A recent survey showed that many musicians have concerns about how their audience perceives music made with the assistance of AI, with the loss of authenticity being the primary worry.
Hot Take: AI and the Future of Music
The release of The Beatles’ final song with the help of AI highlights the growing use of technology in music production. While some embrace these advancements and see them as a way to push boundaries and create new experiences, others raise concerns about authenticity and the impact on the creative process. As AI continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of music, but it is up to musicians and audiences to navigate the balance between innovation and artistic integrity.
By
By
By
By