Key Highlights
- Charli XCX collaborated with John Cale for the Wuthering Heights film soundtrack.
- The first song released is titled “House,” featuring a spoken word section by Cale.
- Cale, 83, was a founding member of The Velvet Underground and has been involved in numerous solo projects.
- Wuthering Heights, the adaptation of Emily Bronte’s novel, will be released in cinemas on February 14, 2026.
New Collaboration: Charli XCX and John Cale for Wuthering Heights Soundtrack
Charli XCX, the renowned singer-songwriter, has teamed up with legendary musician John Cale to contribute to the score of the upcoming film adaptation of Emily Bronte’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights. The collaboration, which saw Cale, 83, lend his distinctive voice and poetic recitation for the new single “House,” has moved XCX to tears.
The song, set to be released soon, features a spoken word section by Cale that includes a powerful line: “I think I’m ‘gonna die in this house.” XCX, whose real name is Charlotte Aitchison, expressed her admiration for Cale’s work with The Velvet Underground and shared how his influence inspired her music. In an Instagram post, she described the experience of collaborating with him as profoundly moving.
Background on John Cale
John Cale, a founding member of The Velvet Underground, alongside Lou Reed, has been instrumental in shaping the rock and experimental music scenes. His career extends beyond his work with The Velvet Underground, having released 19 solo studio albums, including critically acclaimed works such as Songs For Drella. Cale’s contributions to music have earned him recognition from influential artists like David Bowie, Nirvana, and the Arctic Monkeys.
Wuthering Heights Adaptation: A Psychological Thriller
The film adaptation of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell, is set to be released in cinemas on February 14, 2026. The movie stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, with the film aiming to capture the primal emotions of the characters. Despite criticism regarding casting choices, the project remains highly anticipated by fans of both the book and its potential cinematic interpretation.
XCX’s involvement in the soundtrack comes at a time when she is experiencing significant success in her music career. Her sixth album, Brat, was voted as the best new release of 2024 by Collins Dictionary, marking a pivotal moment in her artistic journey.
Film Soundtrack Collaboration: A Personal Connection
The collaboration with John Cale stemmed from XCX’s deep appreciation for his work. In an interview, she recounted how she reached out to him for his opinion on songs that were deeply inspired by his music. The resulting conversation led to the creation of “House,” a song that combines XCX’s vocals with Cale’s powerful spoken word section.
This collaboration marks a unique blend of old and new in the world of music, reflecting both artists’ continued relevance and influence.
“When I think of Wuthering Heights, I think of passion and pain,” XCX stated. “I think of determination and grit.” The singer-songwriter’s vision for the film aligns with Fennell’s intention to convey the raw emotions at the heart of Bronte’s work, making this soundtrack a crucial component of the overall experience.
The release of “House” is just the beginning of XCX and Cale’s contribution to the Wuthering Heights film. As the project approaches its premiere date, fans can look forward to more collaborations that bridge the gap between generations in the world of music and cinema.
