Pulp Release New Song “Begging for Change” for War Child UK

British indie rock stalwarts Pulp have unveiled “Begging for Change,” a compelling new track contributing to the War Child UK charity compilation album, HELP(2). The song, released on February 20, 2026, marks a significant moment for the band, not only as a return to new music but also as a continuation of their long-standing support for the organization. The HELP(2) album is slated for release on March 6, 2026, and promises a star-studded lineup of artists all lending their talents to a vital cause.

The release of “Begging for Change” is particularly poignant given Pulp’s history with War Child. Back in 1996, the band’s critically acclaimed album Different Class triumphed at the Mercury Prize. In a gesture of solidarity, Pulp donated the entire £25,000 prize money to War Child UK, demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond musical accolades. Frontman Jarvis Cocker recently stated, “Thirty years ago we gave our Mercury Prize (and the prize money) to War Child. This year we have given more. How much more? You’ll have to wait and see…” hinting at further contributions from the band.

A Primal Anthem for a Worthy Cause

“Begging for Change” is described as a stripped-back, urgent, and unapologetic track, representing Pulp at their most intense. The song’s creation involved a unique collaborative effort, featuring a children’s choir previously heard on Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten, and Kae Tempest’s contribution to HELP(2), “Flags.” Cocker specifically requested the young vocalists to add “boisterous screams” to the song, aiming for a “primal anthem” feel, according to a press release. Adding to the collaborative spirit, the track also incorporates a second choir featuring Albarn, Chatten, Kae Tempest, and The Libertines’ Carl Barât, alongside Fontaines D.C.’s Grian Chatten.

The song was meticulously mixed by James Ford and Animesh Raval, who also oversaw the production of Pulp’s 2025 album, More. Ford’s involvement signifies a continuation of the creative partnership that shaped the band’s recent musical direction. The resulting sound, as described by those involved, is a powerful and emotionally resonant piece that speaks to the core values of the HELP(2) project.

HELP(2): A Legacy of Support for Children Affected by Conflict

War Child Records was established as an independent label dedicated to leveraging the power of music to improve the lives of children impacted by conflict. The HELP(2) compilation builds upon the success of the original HELP album released in 1995, which featured iconic artists such as Oasis, Paul McCartney, and Radiohead. The initial HELP album raised an impressive £1.25 million to support children affected by the Bosnian conflict. War Child continues its mission to protect, educate, and advocate for the rights of children living through conflict around the world.

The 2026 iteration of the compilation boasts an extensive and diverse lineup of contributors, including Anna Calvi, Arctic Monkeys, Arlo Parks, Arooj Aftab, Bat For Lashes, Beabadoobee, Beck, Beth Gibbons, Huge Thief, Black Country, New Road, Cameron Winter, Damon Albarn, Depeche Mode, Dove Ellis, Ellie Rowsell, English Teacher, Ezra Collective, Foals, Fontaines D.C., Graham Coxon, Greentea Peng, Grian Chatten, Kae Tempest, King Krule, Nilüfer Yanya, Olivia Rodrigo, Sampha, The Last Dinner Party, Wet Leg, and Young Fathers. The tracklist reveals a compelling mix of established artists and rising stars, all united by a common purpose.

HELP(2) Tracklist:

• Side A
  1. Arctic Monkeys – Opening Night
  2. Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten & Kae Tempest – Flags
  3. Black Country, New Road – Strangers
  4. The Last Dinner Party – Let’s do It Again!
  5. Beth Gibbons – Sunday Morning
• Side B
  1. Arooj Aftab & Beck – Lilac Wine
  2. King Krule – The 343 Loop
  3. Depeche Mode – Universal Soldier
  4. Ezra Collective & Greentea Peng – Helicopters
  5. Arlo Parks – Nothing I Could Hide
  6. English Teacher & Graham Coxon – Parasite
  7. Beabadoobee – Say Yes
• Side C
  1. Big Thief – Relive, Redie
  2. Fontaines D.C. – Black Boys On Mopeds
  3. Cameron Winter – Warning
  4. Young Fathers – Don’t Fight The Young
  5. Pulp – Begging For Change
  6. Sampha – Naboo
• Side D
  1. Wet Leg – Obvious
  2. Foals – When The War Is Finally Done
  3. Bat For Lashes – Carried My Girl
  4. Anna Calvi, Dove Ellis, Ellie Rowsell & Nilüfer Yanya – Sunday Light
  5. Olivia Rodrigo – The Book of Love

The song “Begging for Change” was recorded at the historic Abbey Road Studios in London, adding another layer of prestige to the project. Cocker shared on social media that the song was finalized in late 2024, with contributions from all the featured artists during that period. The collaborative spirit and dedication to the cause are evident in the song’s creation and the impressive roster of musicians involved.

Lyrically, “Begging for Change” delves into themes of societal pressures and a desire for transformation. Cocker’s vocals, described as submissive and robotic, deliver lines like, “We are being strip-mined by the powers that be/ We are being strip-mined by the new bourgeoisie/ Now we’re begging…” before transitioning into an upbeat instrumental and a powerful chant: “B-E-G-G-I-N-G/ Begging for Change!” The song’s message resonates with a sense of urgency and a call for collective action.

Pulp’s Continued Relevance and Charitable Endeavors

Pulp’s return to the music scene with the 2025 album More was met with critical acclaim, solidifying their status as influential figures in British indie rock. The band’s decision to contribute to HELP(2) underscores their commitment to social responsibility and their enduring connection with War Child. The release of “Begging for Change” serves as a reminder of the power of music to raise awareness and support vital humanitarian efforts.

The HELP(2) album is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of children affected by conflict, continuing the legacy of the original HELP compilation. With its impressive lineup of artists and its powerful message, the album is expected to garner widespread attention and generate substantial funds for War Child’s crucial work. Fans can anticipate the full release of HELP(2) on March 6, 2026, and look forward to supporting a cause that truly makes a difference.

The next confirmed step is the official release of the HELP(2) album on March 6, 2026. Listeners can pre-order the album and find more information about War Child’s work at www.warchild.org.uk/help2. We encourage our readers to share this article and join the conversation about the importance of supporting children affected by conflict.