Album: Single Release Only (2014)
Charted: 20
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Songfacts®:

  • This version of The Beach Boys hit tune was recorded by Brian Wilson accompanied by a supergroup dubbed 'The Impossible Orchestra.' It was broadcast simultaneously across BBC One, Two, Three, Four and Radio 1, 2, 4, 6 and 5 Live on October 7, 2014 to launch BBC Music, a link-up of the range of music broadcast across the network. Bob Shennan, director of BBC Music, said: "This 'impossible' orchestra is a celebration of all the talent, diversity and musical passion found every single day throughout the BBC."
  • Speaking about the project, Brian Wilson told The Guardian: "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 full lineup of musicians who contributed to the track are in order of appearance: BBC Concert Orchestra, Martin James Bartlett (celeste), Pharrell Williams (vocal), Emeli Sandé (vocal), Sir Elton John (vocal), Lorde (vocal), Chris Martin (vocal), Brian Wilson (vocal), Florence Welch (vocal), Kylie Minogue (vocal), Stevie Wonder (vocal), Eliza Carthy (vocal), Nicola Benedetti (violin), Jools Holland (piano), Brian May (electric guitar), Jake Bugg (vocal), Katie Derham (violin), Lauren Laverne, Tees Valley Youth Choir (vocal), Gareth Malone, Alison Balsom (piccolo trumpet), One Direction (vocal), Zane Lowe, Jaz Dhami (vocal), Paloma Faith (vocal), Chrissie Hynde (vocal), Jamie Cullum (vocal), Baaba Maal (vocal), Danielle de Niese (vocal), Dave Grohl (vocal), Sam Smith (vocal).
  • All proceeds from the track went to the BBC charity, Children In Need.

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