Album: Single Release Only (2014)
Charted: 20
Play Video

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.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Weezer

WeezerFact or Fiction

Did Rivers Cuomo grow up on a commune? Why did they name their albums after colors? See how well you know your Weezer in this Fact or Fiction.

Roger McGuinn of The Byrds

Roger McGuinn of The ByrdsSongwriter Interviews

Roger reveals the songwriting formula Clive Davis told him, and if "Eight Miles High" is really about drugs.

Colin Hay

Colin HaySongwriter Interviews

Established as a redoubtable singer-songwriter, the Men At Work frontman explains how religion, sobriety and Jack Nicholson play into his songwriting.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Graham Nash

Graham NashSongwriter Interviews

Graham Nash tells the stories behind some of his famous songs and photos, and is asked about "yacht rock" for the first time.

Gary Lewis

Gary LewisSongwriter Interviews

Gary Lewis and the Playboys had seven Top 10 hits despite competition from The Beatles. Gary talks about the hits, his famous father, and getting drafted.