it is announced that legendary artists PETER MURPHY and BOY GEORGE have joined forces for the gorgeous, orchestral new single “Let The Flowers Grow” which is available today via Metropolis Records. Premiered yesterday by Rolling Stone, the duet finds both artists creating a profoundly emotional masterpiece.
Recalls Peter, “I was recording my new album in Spain with Youth (Killing Joke). Whilst listening to a playback of a song during a lull, I heard a piece of music that was coming from his cell phone. It caught my ear for its melodic beauty as well as a Roy Orbison-like voice that sang the song.” Learning that it was an unfinished demo that Boy George had written, Peter was intrigued and asked Youth if he could work on the partial song. “In a matter of 20 minutes, we had ‘Flowers’ finished.”
“When I heard the mix, I was satiated in every way,” adds Boy George. “I have always loved Pete’s voice and his writing on this adds a beautiful darkness. The production feels very epic, like Scott Walker.” Majestic and musically sprawling, “Let The Flowers Grow” carries a stately reverence that both artists lend amply to the song. Produced by Youth (Pink Floyd, Killing Joke, The Orb, Paul McCartney “The Firemen,” Faith No More, Alien Sex Fiend, Siouxsie and the Banshees), the track finds both powerful vocalists allowing their iconic vocals to deliver a message of acceptance and hope. Originally written by Boy George, its initial message was one about personal acceptance of being gay. As the song developed, it took a more expansive and universal scope, its lyrics extending beyond sexuality and embracing race, gender, creed, and religion. “With everything going on in the world about identity, [‘Let The Flowers Grow’] feels very powerful,” explains Boy George.
Peter and Boy George’s mutual adoration has spanned decades. “I first met Boy George when he asked to be allowed backstage to meet Howard Devoto when Bauhaus were supporting Magazine” recalls Peter. “He struck me as a super-original, self-styled 17th Century fop. The second time I met him was when we walked into the BBC to do ‘Ziggy Stardust’ on Top of the Pops where Culture Club were also making their debut on the show. George greeted me very warmly and I discovered he was a Bauhaus fan.”
With the finished single unleashed, Peter and Boy George reflect on the song. “It makes me dizzy and proud,” beams Boy George. Concludes Peter, “Boy George loved it and I’m so glad that he did.”
“Let The Flowers Grow” was released November 8, 2024 via Metropolis Records and is available at Bandcamp.
