Speed Reading — The Beatles' Last Song - Level 3 — 300 wpm

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The Beatles have released the last song they recorded. The song is titled "Now and Then". It was written by John Lennon in 1977. He sang it at the piano and recorded it in 1979 at his home. The other Beatles added to the track over the years. Recording engineers used AI technology to bring the song to life, resulting in a sound like the four Beatles recorded it together in a studio. The song has been released as a double-A side single. The flip side of the record is a new mix of the band's first single "Love Me Do". This was first released in 1962. "Now and Then" will also be the final track on a new edition of the Beatles' legendary greatest hits "blue" album. This is a collection of their classics from 1967-1970.

Beatles member Paul McCartney spoke to reporters about the new song. He said: "It's quite emotional. And we all play on it. It's a genuine Beatles recording." He spoke about his excitement at being able to release a new song, saying: "In 2023, to still be working on Beatles music, and to release a new song the public haven't heard, I think it's an exciting thing." McCartney was also excited about hearing John Lennon's voice. He said it was "crystal clear". Lennon was shot dead by a fan outside his New York home in 1980. Beatles drummer Ringo Starr said recording the song was, "the closest we'll ever come to having [John Lennon] back in the room". He said it was, "very emotional for all of us".

Comprehension questions
  1. When did John Lennon write the song "Now and Then"?
  2. Who used AI technology to bring the new song to life?
  3. What has the song "Now and Then" been released as?
  4. What is the name of the first Beatles single?
  5. From when do the songs on the Beatles' "blue" album come?
  6. Who did Paul McCartney speak to?
  7. What kind of recording did Paul McCartney call "Now and Then"?
  8. What was Paul McCartney excited about hearing?
  9. Who is Ringo Starr?
  10. Who did Ringo Starr say recording the song was emotional for?

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