Creating Change Through Music: The Making of Help 2 Charity Album

Mon Feb 02 2026 21:21:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Explore the behind-the-scenes of Help 2, the star-studded charity album featuring over 30 renowned artists, as they unite to raise funds for children affected by war.

Help 2, the much-anticipated charity album, brings together over 30 artists to raise funds for Warchild, with contributions from major indie rock figures recorded at Abbey Road studios. The album, featuring a who's who of the music industry, aims to highlight the urgent needs of children affected by conflict worldwide. The creative process incorporates a unique element, with a film crew of children documenting the recording experience, capturing the spontaneity and collaborative spirit of the project.

In the heart of Abbey Road, artists including Damon Albarn, Olivia Rodrigo, and Pulp's Jarvis Cocker gathered last November to record Help 2, a charity album aimed at aiding children in war-torn areas through the organization Warchild. The week-long sessions produced a vibrant collection of 23 tracks featuring stars from the indie rock scene, including Wet Leg, Fontaines DC, and Wolf Alice.

The atmosphere was electric, with spontaneity evident as musicians collaborated in real time. The tracklist revealed contains exciting pairings, such as Blur's Graham Coxon joining Rodrigo on a cover of The Magnetic Fields' 'The Book of Love.'

This album acts as a spiritual successor to 1995's Help!, which raised significant funds during a time of dire need. With current crises plaguing countries like Ukraine and Sudan, and a staggering 520 million children affected by conflict, the urgency of Help 2’s mission is clear. It aims not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the plight of these children.

In a unique twist, the recording sessions were documented by a crew of children, ages 8 to 10, capturing the artistic process and injecting a sense of fun. This filming experience allowed the adult musicians to interact with the young directors, adding a refreshing dynamic to the studio environment.

The first single, 'Opening Night' by Arctic Monkeys, sets the tone for the album with its stark lyrics discussing societal issues. The full album is set for release on March 6 and will be priced affordably, ensuring that all proceeds support Warchild's mission.

As Cocker noted, music has the power to provide not just enjoyment, but also a means for people to contribute positively in dire circumstances. Help 2 promises to be a collection that resonates deeply with audiences while making tangible contributions to global humanitarian efforts.