During a recent general election announcement by Rishi Sunak, a strategically chosen song interrupted the speech within minutes. The song that played, “Things Can Only Get Better” by D:Ream, was not randomly selected. Instead, it was a deliberate choice with a rich political history. This song was the official anthem of Sir Tony Blair’s successful Labour campaign in 1997. By playing this song during the current speech, it ignited memories of past victories and the hope for a brighter future, subtly influencing the listeners in a specific direction.
Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and trigger nostalgia in individuals. By associating a particular song with a political movement or a successful campaign from the past, political figures can tap into the collective memory of the audience. In this case, the choice of “Things Can Only Get Better” aimed to awaken feelings of optimism and hope among the listeners. It was a clever strategy to use music as a tool for persuasion and rallying support.
Interestingly, the song was not played by the Labour Party itself but by prominent anti-Brexit campaigner, Steve Bray. His intention was not to support Labour, but rather to troll the Conservatives with a song deeply connected to Labour’s historic victory. This incident highlights the role of individual activists in using music as a form of protest and political statement. It showcases the power of music to communicate a message or sentiment, even in the midst of a political speech.
For many, “Things Can Only Get Better” has become synonymous with the Labour Party and its message of progress and hope. The song’s resurgence during political events reflects its enduring relevance and impact. Even Labour’s current leader, Sir Keir Starmer, referenced the song in a recent speech, drawing a parallel between past optimism and present disillusionment. This demonstrates the lasting influence of music in shaping political narratives and ideologies.
The incident of music playing during a political speech is not an isolated one. Campaigners and activists have used music as a tool for disruption, expression, and communication throughout history. As seen in this case, Steve Bray’s actions signify a growing trend of using music to convey political messages and provoke reactions. Looking ahead, it is likely that we will witness more instances of music being strategically deployed in political campaigns to sway opinions and inspire action.
The use of music in political campaigns is a potent and nuanced strategy that can evoke emotions, trigger memories, and communicate messages effectively. The recent incident involving “Things Can Only Get Better” serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of music in shaping political narratives and ideologies. As we navigate through future campaigns and protests, it is essential to recognize the power of music as a symbol, a protest tool, and a means of expressing political ideology.