D:Ream Pulls Plug on Labour’s Anthem Use Amid 2024 Election Campaign

D:Ream Prohibits Labour from Utilizing "Things Can Only Get Better" in Election Campaign

Alan Mackenzie and Peter Cunnah, original members of the band, expressed their disappointment upon hearing their chart-topping song during Rishi Sunak's election announcement.

Journalist handle @samuelosborne93

Saturday, June 1, 2024, 3:

The group that created the anthem "Things Can Only Get Better" for New Labour's 1997 campaign has prohibited Sir Keir Starmer from utilizing the track in the upcoming election.

D:Ream's original members, Alan Mackenzie and Peter Cunnah, expressed their disappointment when their chart-topping song was broadcast over a loudspeaker during Rishi Sunak's announcement of a general election on July 4.

The duo expressed to LBC that their initial reaction was, "Not this once more."

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Cunnah, speaking from his home recording studio in Donegal, expressed his concerns, saying, "The issue has reverted to being a political matter, which I find troubling. I was hoping we could move on with our lives, but it has resurfaced."

"Are we merely a protest anthem blaring from a speaker at a street corner? It’s akin to an unusual force of gravity that’s inescapable."

However, Sir Keir dismissed the slight, telling LBC: "Look, it's not 1997 anymore. It's 2024.

The decision facing the nation is crystal clear. After experiencing 14 years filled with turmoil and discord, a continuation of the same is inevitable if the Conservatives return to power.

"We have the opportunity to begin afresh and reconstruct our nation under Labour's leadership. Should we be fortunate enough to govern, we will have an anthem to mark that occasion."

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"I believe that politics and music should remain separate"

The group also voiced remorse for permitting Sir Tony Blair to feature their song in his 1997 campaign, noting that they faced criticism for being indirectly linked to the UK's involvement in the Iraq war.

Cunnah recalled, "It was evident that a significant shift was underway, and there was a collective sense across the country that change was necessary."

"Everyone fully supported it and was willing to give Labour a chance. However, post-war, I found myself without a political party to call home."

Mackenzie, in a conversation with LBC from his Midlands residence, expressed, "I believe that politics and music should remain separate.

"This phenomenon has affected numerous other bands in America and elsewhere, as songs often become inherently associated with certain events, which can have a detrimental impact.

"I intend to vote against the Conservatives, however, I prefer that the song not be associated with that action."

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"Music and governance shall not intertwine once more"

When questioned about their reaction if Sir Keir Starmer asked to use their music, Mackenzie stated, "Absolutely not – our music will not mix with politics ever again."

"Cunnah concurred, admitting, "Indeed, it was a tough lesson."

"This represents a transition of leadership, not really an election. It's essentially about passing the torch to someone else."

The initial formation of D:Ream featured Professor Brian Cox among its members, but the band disbanded soon after the New Labour party won in 1997.

Cunnah and Mackenzie, who got back together in 2008, are gearing up for a performance at Glastonbury this summer.

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