January 17, 2013 16:39

Mick Hucknall and Stereophonics to re-record first Beatles album

'Please Please Me' covers to be recorded in 12-hour challenge for Radio 2

Photo Gallery: The Beatles
Photo: PA

Mick Hucknall and Stereophonics are to attempt to record The Beatles' debut album in 12 hours as part of BBC Radio 2's celebration of 'The Golden Age Of The Album' later this year.

So far, former Simply Red frontman Hucknall, Welsh rockers Stereophonics and singer-songwriter Gabrielle Aplin have signed on to record versions of the songs featured on The Fab Four's 1963 album 'Please Please Me' in the same brisk timescale the band managed it in 50 years ago. BBC Radio 2 will broadcast from Abbey Road studios throughout the day on Monday, February 11 as the assorted musicians attempt to lay down all of the tracks in limited time.

Radio 2 DJ Stuart Maconie will host throughout the day with Jo Whiley also broadcasting her programme from the world famous studios. The one-off stunt will be part of the BBC's 'The Golden Age Of The Album' campaign, which is set to run across BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music and BBC Four in February.

Speaking about the challenge, Bob Shennan, Controller Radio 2, 6 Music and Popular Music, said: "The re-creation of 'Please Please Me' promises to be one of Radio 2's stand-out moments of 2013. Hearing those tracks brought to life again with a contemporary twist will have the network buzzing as much as the original did. It’s one album that changed the world of pop music and I think the 50th anniversary is a timely moment to remind everyone why."

Radio 2's tribute to 'Please Please Me' will coincide with a BBC Four documentary on the album which will be broadcast on February 15. Other programmes set to air throughout the season include The Great Album Showdown, where Danny Baker (alongside guests Boy George, Grace Dent, David Hepworth, Martin Freeman, Jeremy Clarkson and Trevor Nelson) will debate over which are the best albums in pop, rock and R&B.

Jo Whiley will also helm a debate and online poll to discover Radio 2's Best Album while 6 Music DJ Steve Lamacq will ask listeners to send in their own versions of their favourite album artwork in a feature titled 'Album Grand Redesigns'.

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