The Beatles made history recently by topping the UK singles chart with their brand new single, “Now and Then,” 54 years after their last number one song. This achievement marks their 18th chart-topping hit, solidifying their record as the British act with the most UK Number 1 singles. The song, based on a private recording made by John Lennon, was completed by the surviving members of the group, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, using AI technology
In a landmark moment for music history, The Beatles have once again topped the UK Singles Chart with their new release, “Now and Then,” marking their 18th number one hit. This extraordinary achievement comes 54 years after their last chart-topper, “The Ballad of John and Yoko,” in 1969—setting a new record for the longest gap between UK number one singles.
“Now and Then” is more than just a new Beatles track. It’s a poignant blend of legacy and innovation, merging decades-old creativity with modern technology. The song is built around a private demo recorded by John Lennon in the late 1970s, shortly before his death. For decades, the recording remained unfinished—its poor audio quality once making completion impossible. But with the help of advanced AI-assisted audio restoration tools, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr were finally able to isolate Lennon’s voice and bring the song to life.
Working alongside producers and engineers, McCartney and Starr added new instrumentation and vocals, creating a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The result is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the essence of The Beatles while reflecting the passage of time and the evolution of music itself.
In topping the chart once more, The Beatles not only extend their record as the British act with the most UK number one singles, but they also reaffirm their timeless appeal. The success of “Now and Then” serves as a testament to their enduring legacy—and to the power of technology in preserving and extending artistic vision.
Fans around the world have welcomed the new single with emotion and enthusiasm, many viewing it as a final chapter in the Beatles’ unparalleled story. For younger generations, it’s an introduction to the magic of a band that forever changed the course of popular music. For longtime fans, it’s a moving reminder of the enduring bond between Lennon, McCartney, Harrison, and Starr.
More than half a century after their last number one, The Beatles continue to make history—and “Now and Then” is proof that their music remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
