Status Quo Are "In The Army Now"

Rock band Status Quo have enlisted the British Army in the remaking of their 1986 hit single In The Army Now, which aims to raise money for the British Forces Foundation and Help For Heroes.

Utilising the vast expertise within 4th Battalion The Rifles and musicians from the Corps of Army Music, the band have brought the well-known song and video up to date with some new lyrics to highlight their support for the Services.

Francis Rossi, Quo singer and lead guitarist, said, "It seemed like the right time to do this. This release is intended to show our support for the Allied Forces around the world, and in particular, of course, the British Armed Forces.

“We want people to celebrate what they do, say thank you and also support these vital charities."

When Pip Williams, the Quo’s record producer and lecturer at Thames Valley University (TVU), was approached by the band to reversion the song, the idea to involve the Army was mooted, as some of the Army’s musicians attend the university.

Seventeen singers from across the Corps of Army Music, which includes 22 Regular Army bands, recorded the track at the TVU in Ealing, in the presence of Status Quo, who were clearly delighted with the collaboration.

Captain Guy Booth, of the Corps of Army Music, said: “Our musicians thoroughly enjoyed working with the guys from Status Quo and it was obvious that Francis Rossi and his colleagues appreciated the professionalism of our musicians too.

“We are delighted to be a part of this new modern version of a very well-known song which has been reworked to demonstrate the tremendous support for the British Army and all the Services.”

Following the music recording Rick Parfitt, Quo guitarist, said: "We've even roped the Army in to help us create a stunning video that will really give the song some heavy firepower.”

The video was recorded with members of 4 RIFLES at their barracks in Bulford, on Salisbury Plain, and also at Bovington Tank Museum in Dorset.

During the shoot, the Quos got to experience first-hand the potent performance of some of the British Army’s toughest and loudest equipment and vehicles.

In the Army Now is set to be released on 26 September 2010 with all the proceeds going to the British Forces Foundation and Help for Heroes. And, it is hoped the Government will waive the VAT on the single.

On 25 September Status Quo will perform alongside the Corps of Army Music at the annual Rhythm Force concert.

The event, held in the grounds of Kneller Hall, attracts headline acts from the classical and popular music genres.