"People Help the People" is the second single taken from Cherry Ghost's début album, Thirst for Romance. It was made available to download on 11 June 2007, and followed two weeks later on CD and 7-inch vinyl. The band played the song live on Later... with Jools Holland on 24 November 2006. Jimi Goodwin of the band Doves plays drums on the single. "People Help the People" peaked the UK Singles Chart at number 27. The song was also a hit in Italy. The song was written in Aldred's childhood box room bedroom in Bolton in the run up to Xmas 2005. Two music videos were produced for the song, one directed by Huse Monfaradi, the other one directed by Chris Hopewell.

Track listings

All songs written by Simon Aldred, except where noted. CD (HVN168CD): 7" vinyl (HVN168): Download (UK iTunes only):

Weekly charts

Birdy version

English musician Birdy released a cover version of the song, which was released on 28 October 2011 as a download in the United Kingdom. In 2012, the song received attention in Australia when it was used in a trailer for a Neighbours storyline.

Music video

A music video to accompany the release of "People Help the People" was first released onto YouTube on 6 October 2011 at a total length of four minutes and eighteen seconds. It was shot in black and white, and it features Birdy walking through London. The video has amounted 217 million views as of June 2024. Another music video, released on YouTube 30 October 2012, was shot in France. It was directed by Florent Déchard.

Track listing

Charts

Weekly charts

Year-end charts

Certifications

Release history