Chumbawamba

The councilor comes with his battered old suit
And his head all filled with plans
Says "It's not for myself, for the fame or wealth
But to help my fellow man."
Fist in the air and the first to stand
When the Internationale plays
Says "We'll break down the walls of the old Town Hall
And we'll fight all the lifelong day!"
Ten years later where is he now?
He's ditched all the old ideas
Milked all the life from the old cash cow
Now he's got a fine career
Now he's got a fine career

Anarcho-pop band from Leeds.

Originally formed in the early 1980s as Chimp Eats Banana, Chumbawamba first emerged in the anarchopunk scene which was dominated by bands such a pacifist punks Crass. As Chumbawamba increasingly differed from their peers in outlook and tactics, they began to adopt a new musical style which incorporated elements of folk music, indie rock and hip-hop.

After drifting between labels, their change in direction culminated in signing a record deal with major label EMI, a choice which sparked outrage amongst their former comrades, outrage that culminated in a “Fuck Chumbawamba” compilation. By chance, Chumbawamba’s new work with EMI resulted in an internationally best-selling single, “Tubthumping”, and a sudden rise to fame.

more tracks from the album

The Boy Bands Have Won

From the album

The Boy Bands Have Won (2008)

Chumbawamba popular songs

A Fine CareerChumbawamba

Chumbawamba

The Boy Bands Have Won