Political Trolling: The Use of Music in Campaigns

The intersection of music and politics has been a longstanding tradition, with political campaigns often using songs to inspire and motivate their supporters. However, in recent times, music has also been used as a form of trolling in politics, as evidenced by the recent incident involving a campaigner playing the song “Things Can Only Get Better” by D:Ream during Rishi Sunak’s general election announcement.

“Things Can Only Get Better” by D:Ream holds significant historical importance as the official anthem of Sir Tony Blair’s landslide victory for Labour in 1997. The song experienced a resurgence in popularity after it was played during the prime minister’s speech calling for an election on 4 July. This unexpected choice of music served as a nod to the past and a subtle dig at the Conservative party.

The individual responsible for blasting the song through amplifiers near No 10 was prominent anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray. Despite his assertion that he did it as a form of trolling against the Conservatives rather than in support of Labour, the song’s association with the Labour party remains strong even decades after its initial use during Sir Tony Blair’s campaign.

The use of “Things Can Only Get Better” during Rishi Sunak’s announcement highlights the power of music in conveying political messages. Even though the song was not played by the Labour party itself, its symbolic significance and connection to past electoral victories helped to reinforce certain narratives and evoke emotions among listeners.

Campaigners like Steve Bray have a history of using disruptive tactics to draw attention to political issues. By vowing to buy more amplifiers and continue protesting during the election campaign, Bray exemplifies the persistence and creativity of grassroots activists in challenging the status quo and making their voices heard.

As the boundaries between art and politics blur, the strategic use of music in campaigns will continue to play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing voter perceptions. The incident involving “Things Can Only Get Better” serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of music in politics and the potential for songs to be used as powerful tools for political messaging and activism.