Music stars to record version of classic Beatles album

OASIS, Kaiser Chiefs and The Killers are to record their own versions of tracks from Beatles album Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band to mark its 40th anniversary.

They are among a host of bands taking part in a special programme for Radio 2.

James Morrison, Travis and The Fratellis will also record cover versions.

The 1967 album features Beatles classics With A Little Help From My Friends, Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds, When I’m Sixty-Four and A Day In The Life.

Geoff Emerick, the audio engineer who recorded the original album at Abbey Road, will record the new versions — with the same four-track equipment he used in 1967.

Radio 2 controller Lesley Douglas said: “This will be not only a unique radio event, but a very special musical moment.

“The range and quality of artists involved ensure that this will be a fitting tribute to one of the great albums of all time.”

Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band was the Beatles’ eighth album and regarded by many as their most influential.

The two-hour Radio 2 special, Sgt Pepper’s 40th Anniversary, will be broadcast on June 2.