Why The Beatles Never Released “Now And Then” Until Decades Later

March 20, 2025

In the heart of the 1970s, as the world began to embrace the sounds of disco and punk, a tragedy struck that would forever change the landscape of music. John Lennon, one of the four beloved members of The Beatles, had been brutally taken from the world in December 1980. His death left a gaping hole in the hearts of fans and musicians alike. But amid this sorrow, a song quietly waited in the shadows, longing to be heard. It was called “Now and Then,” and its story would unfold over decades, reflecting the resilience and passion of those who cherished it.

“Now and Then” was born out of a moment of nostalgia. In 1970, shortly after The Beatles had disbanded, John recorded a demo of the song at home, reminiscing about lost love and the simplicity of youthful dreams. He poured his feelings into those notes, capturing the essence of longing that resonated with every listener. However, as the years passed, the surviving Beatles—Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr—found it difficult to transition from a beloved band to independent artists. The weight of their shared history loomed large, and the idea of releasing “Now and Then” felt like unearthing old emotions that were best left undisturbed.

In the late 1990s, technology took a leap forward with the invention of digital sound, which allowed the surviving members to revisit that beautiful demo. Paul and George even began to work on the song, excited to breathe life into something that seemed lost forever. But once again, fate intervened. George Harrison faced his own battle with cancer, and the project stalled once more. It was as if “Now and Then” echoed the very themes it expressed—time was slipping away, and the memory of The Beatles felt like a fragile dream.

Years turned into decades, and yet “Now and Then” remained in the vaults of history, a bittersweet reminder of what could have been. But the spirit of The Beatles persisted. In the 21st century, their music saw a resurgence, as younger generations discovered their timeless songs. This revival reignited a spark of hope within Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. An opportunity arose when they decided to complete the song with cutting-edge technology that could bring John’s original recording to life alongside their own.

Finally, in late 2023, “Now and Then” was released to the world. The song was not just another single; it was a testament to the enduring legacy of The Beatles. The lush harmonies swept across radio waves, reminding fans of the power of love, loss, and the beauty of human connection. As the final notes played, listeners felt a sense of closure. It was as if John had sent a message from beyond, urging everyone to embrace life with joy, resilience, and unending passion for music. The journey of “Now and Then” taught us that while time may take away, it can also bring back, and sometimes, the most beautiful things are worth waiting for.