When New Zealand's populist Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, took the stage at a political convention in Palmerston North in March, he did so to the backdrop of British punk band Chumbawamba's anthem "Tubthumping (I Get Knocked Down)."
This wasn't the first time Peters had used or referenced the '90s hit, but this instance drew the ire of the band itself.
During his address, Peters, the leader of the nationalist New Zealand First party, criticized the former Labour government's policy of co-governance with the Māori people, likening it to a philosophy seen in Nazi Germany.
He also called for educational reforms, including the removal of certain guidelines from schools.
These comments sparked backlash from other members of New Zealand's coalition government, which includes the mainstream National and ACT parties.
However, the controversy was soon overshadowed by Chumbawamba publicly condemning Peters' use of their song.
Dunstan Bruce, the band's founding member and former vocalist, expressed that Peters' beliefs are contrary to Chumbawamba's worldview, especially given the song's origins as an anthem for the underdog and the working class. Chumbawamba, known as a self-described "anarchist collective," built a brand of activism through support for progressive causes, even after their global success with "Tubthumping" in 1997.
The band has requested their former record company, Sony Music Publishing, to issue a cease-and-desist letter to New Zealand First, although the label has not commented on potential legal action.
The convention hall where the song was played had obtained a license to play music, but the license did not cover any use that could suggest approval, affiliation, or endorsement by the artist, songwriter, publisher, or record label.
In the event of legal action, Chumbawamba might need to demonstrate how Peters or New Zealand First benefited, or how the band suffered damage, from the alleged infringement.
While financial harm may be hard to prove, such action would underscore the band's stance on copyright protection.
This is not the first time music has become a focal point in New Zealand politics. In 2017, the National Party was ordered to pay damages to US rapper Eminem for using a track similar to "Lose Yourself" in a political ad campaign.
Chumbawamba has faced similar issues before, notably with the UK Independence Party in 2011.
While UKIP ceased using the song following the band's request, Peters has defended his use of "Tubthumping," stating on social media that there is nothing to cease or desist.
The influence of music in political campaigns is debated, with some arguing it has a small impact on how candidates are perceived.
However, songs like "Tubthumping" with its message of resilience have resonated with those promoting messages of strength and determination.
For Chumbawamba, the song's mass appeal has been both a blessing and a curse, as they strive to ensure its message remains a force for good and reflective of their beliefs.