I Get Knocked Down The Untold Story Of Chumbawamba
If you were around in the mid-90s, chances are you’ve heard of the hit song “Tubthumping” by the British band Chumbawamba. The song was a smash hit all over the world, and it’s still played on the radio today. But what happened to the band after that? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the untold story of Chumbawamba.
Who are Chumbawamba?
Chumbawamba is a British band that was formed in the early 1980s. The band started off as an anarcho-punk collective, and they were known for their political activism as much as their music. The band members have always been involved in various left-wing causes, and they’ve used their music to raise awareness about issues like anti-fascism, animal rights, and environmentalism.
Over the years, Chumbawamba’s sound has evolved and changed. They’ve experimented with different genres and styles, from punk to folk to electronic music. But their political message has remained consistent throughout their career.
The Rise of “Tubthumping”
In 1997, Chumbawamba released their biggest hit: “Tubthumping.” The song was an instant success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The catchy chorus (“I get knocked down, but I get up again”) became a cultural phenomenon, and the song was played everywhere from sports stadiums to TV shows.
But “Tubthumping” wasn’t just a fun party anthem. The song’s lyrics were actually quite political, with references to class struggle and the struggles of working-class people. In an interview with Rolling Stone, band member Boff Whalley explained the meaning behind the song’s lyrics:
“We wanted to write a song about getting knocked down and getting back up again. We wanted it to be a song that people could sing along to, but we also wanted it to have a message. The song is about the idea that no matter how many times you get knocked down, you can always get back up and keep fighting.”
The Aftermath of “Tubthumping”
After the success of “Tubthumping,” Chumbawamba became a household name. But the band members were uncomfortable with their newfound fame and the commercialization of their music. They felt that their message was being diluted and that they were losing touch with their roots.
In 2000, Chumbawamba released an album called “WYSIWYG” (which stands for “What You See Is What You Get”). The album was a departure from their previous sound and was much more experimental and avant-garde. It received mixed reviews from critics and fans.
Chumbawamba continued to release music and tour throughout the 2000s and 2010s, but they never achieved the same level of success as they did with “Tubthumping.” In 2012, the band announced that they were breaking up, citing a desire to end on a high note and move on to other projects.
The Legacy of Chumbawamba
Although Chumbawamba may not be as well-known as they once were, their music and message continue to resonate with fans today. The band’s commitment to political activism and social justice has inspired countless people around the world.
Chumbawamba’s music may not be for everyone, but their message is more important than ever. In a world where inequality and injustice are rampant, we need more bands like Chumbawamba to speak truth to power and inspire us to fight for a better world.
Conclusion
The story of Chumbawamba is a fascinating one. From their roots as an anarcho-punk collective to their commercial success with “Tubthumping,” the band has always remained true to their political message. Although they may not be making music together anymore, their legacy lives on.