Apple iTunes users still can't download The Beatles music to their iPod, but next year the world's most popular band will feature in a new video game. Today a partnership was announced between developer Rock Band creators Harmonix,
games publisher MTV Games and music publisher Apple Corps Ltd that will result
in The Beatles music appearing in an interactive format for the first time.
The game is not a new version of Rock Band
but rather a new property, and has been described as "an unprecedented,
experiential progression through and celebration of the music and artistry of
The Beatles" that will feature songs from the band's entire catalogue. The
game has the blessing of Yoko Ono Lennon and Olivia Harrison, as well as
enjoying input from Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Giles Martin,
co-producer of The Beatles excellent LOVE remix album and son of long-time
Beatles producer Sir George Martin, will serve as music producer for the game.
"The project is a fun idea which
broadens the appeal of The Beatles and their music," says McCartney. "I
like people having the opportunity to get to know the music from the inside
out."
Ringo Starr says "it gives me great
pleasure to be part of The Beatles, Apple and Harmonix Rock Band
partnership". "The Beatles continue to evolve with the passing of
time and how wonderful that The Beatles' legacy will find its natural
progression into the 21st century through the computerised world we live in.
Let the games commence."
Yoko Ono Lennon describes the game as
"cool". "I love it and hope it will keep inspiring and encouraging
the young generation for many decades."
Jeff Jones, CEO of Apple Corps, believes
the game will help introduce The Beatles' music to "a whole new generation
of music lovers through original and inspired ways".
Alex Rigopulos, CEO and co-founder of Harmonix
agrees. "By presenting their music and artistry through the creative
filter of a groundbreaking video game, we are giving legions of fans and music
lovers all over the world a profound, new way to experience The Beatles. This
game will be a celebration of the Beatles undeniable legacy."
Details of the game's title and release
date have not yet been revealed, but the deal will preclude The Beatles music
from appearing in other popular music games such as Guitar Hero and Sony's
karaoke simulator SingStar.
Meanwhile, after a long delay, the original
version of the long-awaited Rock Band will be released in Australia for the
Xbox 360, PS3, Wii and PS2 on November 7 - a full 12 months after the game's US
release. Rock Band lets up to four friends play music together using guitars,
drums and microphones.