Charli XCX Unveils Original Song for Wuthering Heights

Collaboration with John Cale

Charli XCX has debuted her first original track, “House,” as part of the soundtrack for Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of Wuthering Heights. This exciting collaboration features the legendary John Cale, co-founder of the Velvet Underground. The music video for “House,” directed by Mitch Ryan, who also directed Charli’s recent “Party 4 U” clip, showcases the song’s haunting beauty. You can watch the video below.

Inspiration Behind the Song

In a heartfelt statement, Charli XCX reflected on her admiration for Cale and the Velvet Underground, revealing how a documentary by Todd Haynes deeply influenced her. “A few years ago, I watched Todd Haynes’ documentary about the Velvet Underground,” she shared. “As many of you know, I’m a huge fan of the band and was really taken by the documentary. One thing that stuck with me was how John Cale described a key sonic requirement of the Velvet Underground: that any song had to be both ‘elegant and brutal.’”

Creative Process

Charli continued to elaborate on her creative journey, stating, “When the summer ended, I was still ruminating on John’s words. I decided to reach out to him to get his opinion on the songs that his phrase had so deeply inspired, but also to see whether he might want to collaborate on any. I sent him some songs, and we started talking specifically about ‘House.’ He recorded something and sent it to me—something that only John could do. And it was… well, it made me cry.”

Recent Projects and Musical Ventures

Since the release of her album Brat last year, Charli XCX has expanded her artistic horizons, becoming involved in various film projects. She even took on the dual role of host and musical guest on an episode of Saturday Night Live. Meanwhile, John Cale released his latest studio album, Poptical Illusion, in 2024, followed by the companion project Mixology (Volume 1).

Upcoming Film Release

Fennell’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights is set to hit theaters on February 14, 2026. The film features a star-studded cast, including Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff. The score for the movie is composed by Anthony Willis, who has previously worked on Fennell’s first two features, 2020’s Promising Young Woman and 2023’s Saltburn.

Conclusion

Charli XCX’s collaboration with John Cale on “House” promises to bring a unique sonic experience to the upcoming Wuthering Heights film, blending elegance and intensity. As anticipation builds for the film’s release, fans can look forward to more original music from the talented artist, who continues to push the boundaries of her craft.

FAQs

When is the release date for Wuthering Heights?

The film is set to be released on February 14, 2026.

Who directed the music video for “House”?

The music video was directed by Mitch Ryan.

What inspired Charli XCX to collaborate with John Cale?

Charli was inspired by John Cale’s description of the Velvet Underground’s music being both “elegant and brutal,” which deeply resonated with her creative process.

What is the title of Charli XCX’s most recent album?

Her most recent album is titled Brat, which was released last year.

Who stars in the Wuthering Heights adaptation?

The film stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff.