YAY!
The Beatles Inspire New Music Video Game; Apple Corps Ltd., MTV and Harmonix Come Together for Unprecedented Deal Exclusive Agreement Set to Bring The Beatles Music to Fans for the
First Time in Interactive Form Here, There and Everywhere in 2009
NEW YORK, Oct. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Beatles' extraordinary
music and phenomenal legacy is set to rock across the universe in the form
of a video game through an exclusive partnership between Apple Corps Ltd.,
Harmonix and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).
This partnership marks the first time that Apple Corps, along with EMI
Music, Harrisongs Ltd, and Sony/ATV Music Publishing, has agreed to present
The Beatles music in an interactive video game format. Published by MTV
Games and developed by Harmonix, the world's premier music video game
company and creators of the best-selling Rock Band(R), the game will be an
unprecedented, experiential progression through and celebration of the
music and artistry of The Beatles. The game was creatively conceived with
input from Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, along with Yoko Ono Lennon
and Olivia Harrison, and enjoys their full blessing. In addition, Giles
Martin, co-producer of The Beatles innovative LOVE project, will provide
his expertise and serve as Music Producer for this groundbreaking Beatles
project.
"The project is a fun idea which broadens the appeal of The Beatles and
their music. I like people having the opportunity to get to know the music
from the inside out," Sir Paul McCartney said.
"It gives me great pleasure to be part of The Beatles / Apple and
Harmonix / Rock Band partnership," said Ringo Starr. "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
computerized world we live in. Let the games commence."
"It's cool. I love it and hope it will keep inspiring and encouraging
the young generation for many decades," said Yoko Ono Lennon.
"People are having so much fun playing Rock Band. Combined with The
Beatles tracks, it is a great way to either listen or participate," said
Olivia Harrison. "If you like the music, it doesn't take much persuasion to
get you to play."
"Introducing the genius of The Beatles to a whole new generation of
music lovers through original and inspired ways is extremely exciting to us
at Apple Corps," stated Jeff Jones, CEO, Apple Corps. "We are truly pleased
to be working with the innovative forces at MTV and Harmonix as they embody
our mutual passions for music and creativity."
"Many of us have been part of a generation that has long enjoyed an
enduring love affair with The Beatles and now we're looking to extend that
love affair for future generations to enjoy," said Van Toffler. "Our
inspiration for this project comes from a keen sense of history and a place
of utmost reverence and respect for the band, their music and their
heritage."
"The impact of The Beatles is forever ingrained in the hearts, minds
and souls of millions the world over," said Judy McGrath, Chairman and CEO
of MTV Networks. "The Beatles are the reason many of us are WHERE we are,
and some of us are WHO we are."
"We are honored to be part of this new way for people to discover the
timeless music and art of The Beatles -- the most creatively and
commercially successful, critically acclaimed, and influential band in the
history of popular music," stated Paul DeGooyer, MTV's Senior Vice
President of Electronic Games & Music.
"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," said
Alex Rigopulos, CEO and Co-Founder, Harmonix. "This game will be a
celebration of the Beatles undeniable legacy."
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