British band Pulp has shared a new track, "Begging for Change," as part of War Child UK's upcoming benefit compilation Help(2). The song contributes to efforts supporting children affected by conflict worldwide. It arrives amid Pulp's recent reunion and new album.
Pulp released the single "Begging for Change" on February 20, 2026, as their contribution to War Child UK's charity album Help(2), set for release on March 6. The track was recorded during sessions for the band's 2025 album, More, their first full-length since 2001 and eighth overall.
The original Help album, released in 1995, featured artists such as Oasis, Paul McCartney, and Radiohead, raising £1.25 million for children impacted by the Bosnian conflict. In 1996, Pulp won the Mercury Prize and donated the prize money to War Child. Frontman Jarvis Cocker reflected on this history in a statement: "Thirty years ago we gave our Mercury Prize (and the prize money) to War Child. This year we have given more. How much more? You’ll have to wait and see…"
"Begging for Change" was recorded at Abbey Road Studios and produced and mixed by James Ford and Animesh Raval. It includes backing vocals from a choir featuring Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten, Kae Tempest, and Carl Barat. Help(2) aims to engage music lovers in supporting War Child's work, providing aid, education, mental health support, and protection to children in conflict zones. The compilation includes contributions from Arctic Monkeys, Olivia Rodrigo, Depeche Mode, Bat for Lashes, Beck, Wet Leg, The Last Dinner Party, and Fontaines DC.
Rich Clarke, Head of Music at War Child UK, stated: "HELP(2) is more than an album. It’s a powerful example of what can happen when the music industry comes together around a shared purpose. It has united a diverse group of artists and creatives in support of War Child’s vital work with children affected by the devastating impacts of war. We are immensely grateful to all the artists and teams who have donated their voices, talent and time to support our mission to ensure that no child is caught up in conflict zones. We hope this record not only raises vital funds, but also awareness of the urgent need to turn compassion into action and do more to protect children living through war."
Pulp's reunion and the release of More were partly inspired by personal losses, including the deaths of Cocker's mother and longtime bassist Steve Mackey. Cocker told Rolling Stone: "When Steve passed away, it’s a kind of cliche, but it gives you a reality check. It made us realize that we had a chance to be creative. We had time to create something, while we could. If you’re still around, you’ve still got that opportunity to make things, so this is the time."
