War Child has officially unveiled details for the landmark tenth edition of its celebrated Secret 7” record auction for 2026. This unique project combines the worlds of music and fine art to raise vital funds for children living in conflict zones, providing specialist mental health support, education, and life-saving protection.
The Music: Seven Iconic Tracks
This year’s campaign features an eclectic mix of legendary and contemporary musical talent. The seven confirmed tracks being pressed onto limited-edition vinyl are:
John Lennon: "Out the Blue"
The Last Dinner Party: "Let’s Do It Again!"
Gabrielle: "Out of Reach"
The Maccabees: "No Kind Words"
Skin: "Purple"
Glass Animals: "Take a Slice"
Bastille: "Hope For The Future"
Each song is pressed just 100 times, creating a total of 700 one-of-a-kind records.
The magic of Secret 7” lies in its anonymity. Creatives from across the globe—ranging from superstar artists to emerging illustrators—design unique sleeves for these records. However, the identity of the visual artist and the specific track inside the sleeve remain a mystery until the purchase is complete. Buyers bid on the artwork they love, potentially walking away with a sleeve designed by a world-renowned icon or a future star.
Visual artists have until June 1, 2026, to submit their designs for consideration via the official Secret 7” website.
All 700 unique sleeves will be displayed in a public exhibition at 180 Studios in London from August 18 to August 30, 2026. The online auction will run concurrently, concluding on September 2.
"The need has never been so great," says Charlotte Nimmo, War Child’s Fundraising and Engagement Director, noting that over 520 million children are currently impacted by conflict worldwide. To date, Secret 7” has raised over £900,000, with 100% of the 2026 proceeds going directly to War Child’s emergency assistance and protection programs.
Submissions for sleeve designs are open now. For more information, visit Secret 7”.
