Jeff Wayne's War of the Worlds gets a special radio version ahead of new tour

11 October 2024, 13:56

The War of the Worlds on stage in 2016. Picture: Getty Images

By Mayer Nissim

"No-one would have believed, that slowly and surely, they drew their plans against us."

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Jeff Wayne's musical version of The War of the Worlds was an instant phenomenon on its release way back in 1978.

There were immediate plans to stage a concert version of the rock opera album, but we had to wait until 2006 until it came to pass.

The Moody Blues' Justin Hayward returns for Jeff Wayne's musical War of The Worlds UK arena tour
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Since then, there have been several live versions of the musical that have graced the stage, with its stars including everyone from Justin Hayward and Phil Lynott to David Essex, Gary Barlow and Jason Donovan.

Another UK tour kicks off next spring, with shows across the country ending with a final pair of performances at The O2 in London.

On all dates, Jeff himself will conduct an all-star cast, string orchestra and live band. Tickets are available now.

Jeff Wayne conducting the orchestra in The War Of The Worlds. Picture: Getty Images

To mark the upcoming The Spirit of Man jaunt, Jeff Wayne himself has created a new edit of the album's key opening track 'The Eve of War'.

The new mix chops down the disco-tinged single, which originally clocked in at over nine minutes, to a more radio-friendly length of just under four minutes.

"The Eve of The War' has become the theme tune to many people's lives," Wayne said.

The Eve of The War ft Richard Burton & Justin Hayward - Radio Edit

"Everyone knows someone who remembers growing up to this track. But never before have I created this piece of music specially for radio.

"Now is the time to do that, as we prepare to bring my 19-show tour to cities across the UK in spring 2025. The Martian invasion is coming; radio needs to prepare the UK for the thrilling The Eve of the War."

The full The War of the Worlds tour dates are as follows: