BBC corporate film and charity release"Perfect Day"
In 1997 the track was showcased by the BBC in a lengthy corporate promotion of its diverse music coverage which was broadcast on BBC channels and in cinemas. It featured Lou Reed himself and other major artists in what the Financial Times described as "an astonishing line-up of world class performers". In reference to the licence fee, the film ends with the message "Whatever your musical taste, it is catered for by BBC Radio and Television. This is only possible thanks to the unique way the BBC is paid for by you. BBC. You make it what it is." This message appears over the repeated words "You're going to reap just what you sow" which The Guardian described as "a none too subtle message: keep writing the cheque." In response to accusations from commercial competitors that the corporation had wasted vast sums on the film it was revealed that each artist received a "token" £250 because of their belief in the BBC.
Prompted by a huge public demand the track was released in October as a charity single for Children in Need. It was the UK's number one single for three weeks, in two separate spells. Selling over a million copies, the record contributed £2,125,000 to the charity's highest fundraising total in six years.
The release featured two additional versions of the song - one entirely sung by female performers, one by male performers. Of the title track featuring the performers listed below, Lou Reed said I have never been more impressed with a performance of one of my songs[5]. The BBC also produced a Christmas version of the accompanying music video.
Performers
Performers in order of appearance (italics indicate mute appearance). Dividers indicate verses/sections.Lou Reed
Bono
Skye Edwards (from Morcheeba)
David Bowie
Suzanne Vega
Elton John
Sir Andrew Davis
Boyzone
Lesley Garrett
Lou Reed
Burning Spear
Bono
Sir Thomas Allen
Brodsky Quartet
Heather Small (from M People)
Emmylou Harris
Tammy Wynette
Shane MacGowan
Sheona White (tenor horn player)
Dr. John David Bowie
Robert Cray
Huey (from Fun Lovin' Criminals)
Ian Broudie (from The Lightning Seeds)
Gabrielle
Dr. John
Evan Dando (from The Lemonheads)
Emmylou Harris
Courtney Pine (soprano saxophone player)
BBC Symphony Orchestra
Sir Andrew Davis
Bono
Brett Anderson (from Suede)
Visual Ministry Choir
Joan Armatrading
Laurie Anderson
Heather Small
Tom Jones
Heather Small
Lou Reed