Deuce Music Ltd./RhinoJeff Beck has teamed up with actor/musician Johnny Depp to record a cover of the 1970 John Lennon song “Isolation” that was released today as a digital download and via streaming services.
The track was recorded last year and is intended for an upcoming collaborative album by the duo, but Beck and Depp decided to release it now because its theme reflects what people are experiencing during the coronavirus pandemic.
“We weren’t expecting to release it so soon but given all the hard days and true ‘isolation’ that people are going through in these challenging times, we decided now might be the right time to let you all hear it,” Beck explains. “You’ll be hearing more from Johnny and me in a little while but until then we hope you find some comfort and solidarity in our take on this Lennon classic.”
Adds Depp, “Lennon’s poetry — ‘We’re afraid of everyone. Afraid of the Sun!’ — seemed to Jeff and me especially profound right now, this song about isolation, fear, and existential risks to our world. So we wanted to give it to you, and hope it helps you make sense of the moment or just helps you pass the time as we endure isolation together.”
The track features Beck on guitar and Depp on vocals, as well as contributions from two longtime members of Jeff’s touring band — drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and bassist Rhonda Smith.
In addition to recording a studio version, Beck and Depp performed “Isolation” live last September at Eric Clapton‘s Crossroads Guitar Festival in Dallas.
“Isolation” originally appeared on Lennon’s 1970 debut solo album, Plastic Ono Band.
In other news, Beck has had to postpone his planned 2020 U.K. tour because of the COVID-19 health crisis and will be rescheduling the dates soon.
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