For many, Chumbawamba and their global hit “Tubthumping,” often referred to as the “I Get Knocked Down Song,” were a 90s novelty, easily dismissed as a one-hit-wonder. As someone who, in my Dr. Martens-wearing youth, scoffed at this anarchist indie band, the documentary I Get Knocked Down co-directed by frontman Dunstan Bruce and Sophie Robinson, has prompted a complete reassessment. This film is not just funny; it’s surprisingly insightful and genuinely sweet, offering a deeper look into the band beyond their chart-topping anthem.
The documentary opens with Bruce in his late 50s, grappling with anxieties about the planet’s future and his own perceived insignificance. “I’m a washed up, rinsed out retired radical,” he laments, capturing a sentiment of powerlessness that resonates in today’s world. Bruce cleverly visualizes his inner critic through an actor in a papier-mache head, adding a touch of self-deprecating humor right from the start.
Alt text: Chumbawamba band members performing their hit song Tubthumping on stage, highlighting their energetic and unconventional performance style.
From this introspective beginning, I Get Knocked Down smoothly transitions into an engaging exploration of pop music history. Chumbawamba’s origins as an anarchist collective in Leeds in 1982 are fascinating. Living in a squat, embracing veganism (a significant lifestyle shift for some members), and operating on shared resources and cooking duties, they were far from typical pop stars. Their breakthrough with “Tubthumping,” the “i get knocked down song” that unexpectedly topped global charts, presented them with a unique dilemma and opportunity.
Recognizing the reach of their newfound fame with the “i get knocked down song,” Chumbawamba decided to leverage their platform for political activism from within the mainstream. They famously donated a significant portion of their earnings to activist causes. The documentary revisits the infamous 1998 Brit Awards incident where singer Danbert Nobacon poured water over Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott in protest of the Labour government’s policies towards Liverpool dockworkers, a bold statement broadcast to millions.
Alt text: Danbert Nobacon of Chumbawamba pouring water onto John Prescott at the Brit Awards, symbolizing the band’s political protest against the government.
The film delves into Chumbawamba’s surprising popularity in America and their experiences navigating the US talk show circuit. A memorable clip features band member Alice Nutter famously declaring on late-night television, “If you can’t afford our music, steal it,” perfectly encapsulating their anti-establishment ethos. Bruce’s interviews with their former American record label executive offer a contrasting perspective, suggesting that the band’s political message was largely missed amidst the “Tubthumping” craze. “It went largely over everyone’s head,” the executive admits, highlighting the frequent disconnect between artistic intent and public reception.
What sets I Get Knocked Down apart from typical music documentaries is its refreshing humility. Bruce includes moments that many bands would likely omit, such as a montage of 90s music critics harshly criticizing Chumbawamba. Caitlin Moran’s youthful assessment, “They’re not very good pop stars and they’re not very good political activists either,” is included, showcasing a willingness to confront negative perceptions.
Despite disbanding in 2012, Chumbawamba’s members remain friends, and their camaraderie shines through in the documentary. Scenes of them reminiscing and laughing together provide genuine warmth and charm. The film’s closing credits are particularly poignant, featuring YouTube clips of diverse groups – from Christian choirs to heavy metal bands and children – singing “Tubthumping,” the “i get knocked down song.” These clips demonstrate the unexpected and enduring power of the song, resonating with a wide range of people seeking resilience and defiance.
I Get Knocked Down successfully elevates Chumbawamba beyond the simplistic label of a one-hit-wonder associated with the “i get knocked down song.” It reveals a band with genuine political convictions, a self-aware understanding of their place in music history, and a lasting impact that extends far beyond their most famous track. The documentary is a compelling and heartwarming testament to the unexpected journey of a truly unique band and the enduring appeal of their unlikely anthem.
