Pharrell, Lorde, One Direction and More Lavishly Rework Beach Boys’ ‘God Only Knows’ (Video)

BBC Music launches with the help of the biggest names in music

Music’s biggest names are combining their talents in a new BBC music video ahead of the U.K. broadcaster’s debut of its music initiative, BBC Music.

Joining The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson in a cover of “God Only Knows” is an all-star lineup, including Elton John, Lorde, Pharrell Williams, Kylie Minogue, Stevie Wonder, Chrissie Hynde, Brian May, One Direction, Paloma Faith, Dave Grohl, Emeli Sandé, Sam Smith and Coldplay’s Chris Martin.

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The artists are featured in a carnivalesque opera hall where butterflies and bubbles float about as they sing the catchy tune. Rather than turning the superstar acts into an indistinguishable choir, each musician provides a single line from the lyrics.

“This ‘impossible’ orchestra is a celebration of all the talent, diversity and musical passion found every single day throughout the BBC,” Bob Shennan, director of BBC Music, said.

The track and promotional video premiered Tuesday across several BBC digital, television and radio platforms.

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In addition to announcing the arrival of BBC Music, the new single will be available for sale with proceeds aiding the charity Children in Need. BBC released a similar campaign in 1997, covering Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” with a supergroup of musical talent. That single also benefited Children in Need.

Also read: Lorde’s ‘Hunger Games’ Track ‘Yellow Flicker Beat’ Now Streaming Online (Audio)

Watch the BBC video for “God Only Knows” above.

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