Mark Knopfler’s Star-Packed Charity Single Is Finally Here

Check out Mark Knopfler’s latest charity single, a reimagined version of the classic Going Home (Theme From Local Hero) from 1983.

The track features a star-studded lineup including Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Peter Frampton, Bruce Springsteen, Tony Iommi, Joan Jett, Ringo Starr, Slash, Brian May, Joe Walsh, and Sting, among others. Notably, it also includes the final recording by Jeff Beck before his passing in January 2023.

Proceeds from the single will support the British charity Teenage Cancer Trust and its U.S. counterpart, Teen Cancer America. Available in CD, vinyl, and digital formats, the song was born out of Knopfler’s collaboration with producer Guy Fletcher at British Grove Studios in West London. What started as a small project quickly snowballed, with over 60 guests ultimately joining in. The updated version of “Going Home” has expanded to nearly 10 minutes in length.

Reflecting on the unexpected turnout, Knopfler remarked, “I really had no idea that it was going to be like this.” He recounted how friends like Pete Townshend and Eric Clapton contributed their talents, with Beck’s final performance being particularly poignant.

The new rendition of Going Home kicks off with Beck’s powerful contribution, setting the tone for what promises to be an emotional journey. The full list of guest appearances will be revealed with the release of the official video next week.

Originally featured as the closing track in the soundtrack of the film Local Hero, the song holds sentimental value for Knopfler. While it didn’t achieve great commercial success initially, it later became an anthem for Newcastle United.

Knopfler shared a sneak peek of the updated track with a live performance before a Premier League match at St. James Park, where it was met with enthusiasm by 50,000 fans.