ReMission International released the 2020 version of "Tower Of Strength" ("TOS2020") today.
As previously reported, Wayne Hussey and an all-star cast of artists collaborated for the new edition of the TOS2020 single including Andy Rourke, Martin Gore, Lol Tolhurst, Budgie, Gary Numan, Kevin Haskins, Midge Ure, Billy Duffy, Jay Aston, Michael Aston, Robin Finck, Rachel Goswell, Trentemøller, Evi Vine, and so many more.
Hussey was determined to re-record and reissue the song to pay tribute to front line workers and give back to those affected by Covid-19:
"When Covid-19 hit I started receiving messages asking ‘why don’t you re-issue Tower Of Strength for the front line workers?’ The song had apparently been adopted as an anthem by some NHS workers, and it got me thinking that I would like to contribute something to the greater cause at this unprecedented time and the only thing I could really contribute is music.
So in conjunction with my good friend Michael Ciravolo, I came up with the idea of recording a new version of Tower Of Strength for charity by enlisting the help of musician friends and acquaintances. Tower Of Strength was first released by The Mission as single in 1988 and then again in 1994. It charted twice in the UK top 40 and has proved to be probably our biggest song and the one we generally close our shows with. It is anthemic. I wondered if recording a more well known song might have a greater reach but neither Michael or I could come up with any suggestions that seemed to fit lyrically without getting too corny. So Tower Of Strength it was then."
"TOS2020" is out today and sounds incredible! The video for the single version of "TOS2020" features and pays tribute to front line workers worldwide. As a major bonus, there's tons of footage and photos of the participating artists (sequenced so you know who is singing and playing on the collaborative project). Check out the video for TOS2020 below.
"TOS2020" is available to order on CD, vinyl, and as a digital download. Fans in North America (U.S. and Canada) order here; those in UK/Europe order here.
Proceeds from the sales of the single/EP will be donated to over 20 charities personally selected by each of the artists involved in the project. Head here to view the full list.