Where have I been? I just learned about this fantastic charity single out in the UK on October 19th. The video is one of those "behind-the-scenes" videos interspersed with clips of happy children dancing and singing. You can see the impressive roster of Island Records talent singing their parts and rehearsing in and around the recording studio. Included on this single: V.V. Brown, Bashy, Chipmunk, Domino Go, Egypt, Frankmusik, Pixie Lott, Ironik, Kid British, McLean, Mpho, N-Dubz, Tinchy Stryder and the London Community Gospel Choir.
Produced by Fraser T Smith (whom I know from his remixes but also has worked with Tinchy Stryder and James Morrison), the track is being released by Island Records and the War Child charity to raise funds for children affected by conflict around the world. Recorded back in July, the song, "I Got Soul" is a re-written cover version of The Killers' "All These Things That I've Done" The hook - "I got soul but I'm not a soldier" is one of my favorite lyrics of all time, and very touching to hear in this new single.
According to War Child in a statement, the new record is "a defining moment for the UK's music scene, which is currently ablaze with world class talent." It continues to say that "the song is the perfect way to educate British youth on the plight of thousands of children across the globe. UK urban and soul music has never been bigger - the artists here have featured on five number one singles already this year."
Well said. Well done all around. This is the feel-good-charity single of the moment. Love it.