A glittering array of covers and classic songs will feature as part of the concert, recorded on Wednesday 7 November at The SSE Arena, Wembley, including a performance of George Michael's iconic song Freedom, performed by Rita Ora.
Rita Ora Q&A

What is your favourite example of an artist covering a song and why?

I think it’s every artist, when you sing something that isn’t yours, and you get to do your own thing on it, it’s really fun because the pressure is off, you can be as creative as you like and pay homage to the artist and the song.

Why have you chosen to cover George Michael’s song Freedom and what inspires you about George Michael?

George Michael and the song Freedom changed my life, it made me feel like I was able to do anything, take over the world. He is an icon, I hope my cover honours him and reminds people of his incredible talent.

What song means the most to you?

The song that means the most to me is pretty much every Adele song. Like the rest of the world, they always bring me to tears. She really is the best, and her lyrics really resonate with me.

What artist, past or present would you most like to duet or collaborate with?

I would love to do something with an icon like George Michael of course, but for the present, I think there are so many artists from the UK which are doing such a great job, we really are representing, especially the girls and the pop-stars, so it would be hard to pick, but I am definitely down for a big-collab!

Who is your favourite artist in the charts at the moment and why?

I love everyone, but Sam Smith is my boy, and I love his song Promises, with Calvin Harris.

Other covers being featured include:

An exclusive performance by All Saints of The Police's much-loved hit Message In A Bottle

Jess Glynne’s interpretation of soul music legend Otis Redding's Hard To Handle, especially for Children in Need Rocks 2018

A re-imagination of George Michael's iconic song Freedom, performed by Rita Ora

George Ezra will cover Rudimental's 2018 hit These Days

Viewers will see Olly Murs cover Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop The Feeling and Rock Your Body
Tom Odell will treat the audience to his version of True Colours by Cyndi Lauper

Classic songs performed on the show will include Sir Rod Stewart’s Maggie May and Nile Rodgers & CHIC’s Le Freak.

The spectacular show is in aid of BBC Children in Need and will be broadcast on BBC One, 15 November at 8.30pm.