Beatles’ Sons Unite for Historic Song Recording

Sean Ono Lennon, James McCartney, and Zak Starkey have collaborated on a new song titled “Rip Off,” marking a significant moment for Beatles fans worldwide. The track features contributions from the sons of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr, respectively, as part of Starkey’s band Mantra of the Cosmos.

The collaboration builds on the musical partnership between Lennon and McCartney. The two previously worked together on “Primrose Hill” in April 2024, Consequence of Sound reports. This time, they’ve joined Starkey’s established group, which includes Oasis bassist Andy Bell and Happy Mondays members Shaun Ryder and Mark “Bez” Berry.

Starkey shared a preview of the song on his Instagram page. The clip gives fans their first taste of this unique musical group. While the complete track hasn’t been officially released yet, the lengthy snippet has already generated excitement across social media.

Not Your Father’s Beatles

When asked about comparisons to The Beatles, Starkey was quick to establish the project’s distinct identity. “No, it’s not [like a Beatles song],” he told The Telegraph in an interview. “It’s like Mantra of the Cosmos with them in it. It’s Sean of the Cosmos and James of the Cosmos, it’s still my band.”

The collaboration shows how their musical friendships have grown over time. James McCartney had previously shared enthusiasm about working with Starkey, posting on social media about a “GREAT recording session” and adding “love you man,” according to Ultimate Classic Rock.

Mantra of the Cosmos was formed in 2023 as Starkey’s creative outlet. It brings together accomplished musicians from Britain’s alternative rock scene. In his Rolling Stone interview, Starkey explained how the band came together after touring with Happy Mondays during Who performances. He became inspired by Shaun Ryder’s vocal work, particularly on songs like “Tart Tart.”

Noel Gallagher Was a Collaborator

The project has attracted other notable collaborators, including Noel Gallagher. Gallagher contributed to the band’s recent release “Domino Bones (Gets Dangerous).” Starkey described the creative process with Gallagher to Rolling Stone: “Noel listened to a track I sent him, and said, ‘It’s all [expletive] drums. What am I supposed to play?’ I said, ‘Gimme a week.’ And I wrote music to it and put the pretty piano on it.”

When jokingly asked by The Telegraph about potentially adding Dhani Harrison, George Harrison’s son, to complete the Beatles offspring quartet, Starkey responded with humor: “No I don’t. Why do I?”

The band has secured a deal with BMG and plans to release additional singles throughout the year featuring special guests. “Working with people like Noel, Shaun, Andy, and Bez is always a pleasure — these are the greatest musicians of their generation,” Starkey stated in an announcement cited by Consequence of Sound, adding “this is the year of the Mantra!”