To mark the launch of BBC Music, all of BBC’s television, radio and online networks premiered the track and video for a reworking of the Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows.”
Featuring a star-studded lineup of 27 artists that includes song’s original writer and creator, Brian Wilson, as well as Sir Elton John, One Direction, Stevie Wonder, Pharrell Williams, Lorde, Sam Smith, Dave Grohl and many more — working under the name “The Impossible Orchestra” — the 1966 classic is given new life. The promotional film, created by Karmarama, was shot in the Alexandra Palace Theatre, home of the first ever BBC broadcast over 90 years ago.
“I just feel so incredibly humbled that the BBC would choose ‘God Only Knows’ to promote their new music initiative,” Wilson said in a statement. “All of the artists did such a beautiful job I can’t thank them enough. I’m just honored 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 Impossible Orchestra’s “God Only Knows” will be available for download starting at midnight Tuesday, all proceeds going to BBC Children In Need.