The History of 'Now That’s What I Call Music' at Abbey Road

The History of 'Now That’s What I Call Music' at Abbey Road

The landmark 100th edition of Now That's What I Call Music is out today, 35 years after its first release. All 100 editions have been mastered at Abbey Road, beginning on vinyl back in 1983 when tracks such as Phil Collins' 'You Cant Hurry Love' and Culture Club's 'Karma Chameleon' took centre stage. For every release, the NOW team congregate at Abbey Road with our own Alex Wharton, where the record is compiled, mixed and mastered.

The iconic albums have sold more than 120 million copies across 60 countries, and become synonymous with chart success. The 100th edition will follow the series' traditional double disc format, with disc two made up of 21 iconic hits from the decades, showcasing how pop music has evolved in the last 35 years. Head of Mastering, Lucy Launder, spoke to us about her vital part in the process and managing the team that have been involved in every Now That's What I Call Music release:

The Now series for me has endured because it's a combination of tracks which remind you of a time and place in any particular year. Managing the team for over 20 years who have been responsible for every compilation since the series began means I feel very much part of the creative process and believe me I have invested many anxious hours, especially in the early days when deadlines were tight and masters were sent out on a physical format, to make sure everything is delivered on time!.
 
 
Buy Now That's What I Call Music 100 here.
 
 

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