For the Love of Music

BBC Music launched last night and 27 global stars came together to cover ‘God Only Knows’.

The ensemble – named ‘The Impossible Orchestra’ – were revealed last night (October 7) at 8pm when all of the BBC – television, radio and online sites – premiered the track.

Pharrell Williams, Sir Elton John, Stevie Wonder, One Direction and Sam Smith were among the iconic artists that came together to perform a a cover of the Beach Boys’ classic 1966 hit ‘God Only Knows’.

BBC Music – God Only Knows

Brian Wilson – Beach Boys star and writer of the song said: “I just feel so incredibly humbled that the BBC would choose ‘God Only Knows’ to promote their new music initiative. All of the artists did such a beautiful job I can’t thank them enough. I’m just honoured that ‘God Only Knows’ was chosen. ‘God Only Knows’ is a very special song. An extremely spiritual song and one of the best I’ve ever written.”

The launch of ‘God Only Knows’ is a very significant moment for the BBC, and BBC Music is their strongest commitment to music in 30 years. Bob Shennan, Director of BBC Music said of the song: “God Only Knows showcases the power and potential of music – a modern masterpiece which inspired musicians and music fans nearly 50 years ago, but which continues to inspire today with its timeless beauty and quality…What’s more, the recording will be sold to raise funds for Children in Need, which makes this project even more worthwhile.”

The performance was brilliantly led by my music producer Ethan Johns and performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra. All the artists involved performed free of charge. Bob Shennan commented, “This ‘impossible’ orchestra is a celebration of all the talent, diversity and musical passion found every single day throughout the BBC. Our audiences are very clear in their passion for music and that’s why BBC Music exists: to create, curate and celebrate music – for the love of it.”

We can look forward to the BBC Music Awards on December 11 which is a return of landmark music content on BBC One. The BBC already churns out over 41,000 hours of music a year across TV, Radio and Online, spanning all genres, but this moment is still a very special one and confirms the BBC’s supportive role in the UK music industry.

Who stars in the video?
Brian Wilson, Beach Boys star, composer and producer of original song, is joined by:
Sir Elton John, One Direction, Pharrell Williams, Stevie Wonder, Jake Bugg, Lorde, Emeli Sandé, Chris Martin, Kylie Minogue, Paloma Faith, Sam Smith, Florence Welch, Chrissie Hynde, Brian May, Dave Grohl; classical musicians Alison Balsom, Martin James Bartlett, Danielle de Niese and Nicola Benedetti; folk performer Eliza Carthy; Senegalese singer Baaba Maal; jazz performer Jamie Cullum; British Asian Music star Jaz Dhami; the BBC’s Zane Lowe, Lauren Laverne, Katie Derham, Gareth Malone and Jools Holland; and the wonderful vocals of the Tees Valley Youth Choir and of course, the BBC Concert Orchestra.