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War Child U.K. Kicks Off Secret 7″ Record Auction, Featuring Tracks From John Lennon, the Last Dinner Party, Glass Animals and More

War Child U.K. has officially launched the tenth edition of its Secret 7″ record auction, a unique initiative that merges music and visual art. This year, 700 vinyl records feature hand-crafted sleeves from globally celebrated artists, with tracks spanning from John Lennon’s "Out the Blue" to Glass Animals’ "Take a Slice." The twist? Each record’s song and sleeve artist remain a mystery until the winning bidder receives their prize, making every purchase an exhilarating surprise. The auction, now live, is a fundraising cornerstone for War Child, a charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children in conflict zones through mental health services, education, and emergency aid. This year’s lineup includes tracks from The Last Dinner Party’s "Let’s Do It Again!," which previously appeared on War Child’s "Help(2)" compilation, alongside contributions from Gabrielle, The Maccabees, Skin, and Bastille. Each song inspired a unique sleeve, with designs from a diverse roster of talent, including Berlin Wall muralist Thierry Noir, ceramicist Clare Twomey MBE, and Suede’s Justine Frischmann, who transitioned from music to visual art. Beyond the musical stars, the sleeve designers bring their own stories. For instance, Ben Kelly, an interior designer known for Manchester’s Haçienda nightclub, and Pete Fowler, celebrated for his Super Furry Animals artwork, both contribute. The Connor Brothers, a duo known for their satirical paintings, and British Sri Lankan artist Murugiah add further depth. These creations are currently on display at London’s 180 Studios, an exhibition space renowned for immersive art, through August 30, with the online auction closing on September 2. War Child’s fundraising director, Charlotte Nimmo, emphasized the campaign’s impact, stating, "Secret 7″ showcases how creativity can drive change in the world’s most perilous regions." She added, "We’re thrilled to see such exceptional artists—both musical and visual—unite for our mission." The exhibition, which celebrates the intersection of art and activism, invites visitors to explore the sleeves before bidding, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process behind each piece. Since its inception in 2012, Secret 7″ has raised over £1 million for War Child, with past contributors including Paul Weller and Yoko Ono. This year’s auction not only honors that legacy but also expands it, with each record serving as a tangible symbol of hope. As the bidding heats up, the charity hopes to surpass previous records, ensuring that even in the face of global crises, children affected by conflict receive the protection and opportunities they deserve.

#Joy

Category:SHOW BIZ NEWS

MSG team 2026-08-18