Colin Hay, the former lead singer of Men at Work, has publicly denounced the appropriation of his 1981 classic, Down Under, at March for Australia rallies. He urged participants and event organizers to craft their own anthem instead.
This iconic track has been co-opted by certain anti-immigration protestors, who have been playing it during their gatherings.
Hay expressed his displeasure over the misuse of his song, emphasizing that it contradicts the original message and intent behind it.
In a social media statement, he declared, “I vehemently oppose any unauthorized or unlicensed use of Down Under at any ‘March For Australia’ events.”
He further clarified that Down Under, a song he co-authored, does not represent those who attempt to instigate xenophobia within the social fabric of our diverse nation.
“Down Under is fundamentally a celebratory anthem. It stands for diversity and inclusion, advocating for unity over division,” Hay concluded.
“Go write your own song, leave mine alone.”
The artist signed off his statement with: “Colin Hay (immigrant).”
Hay is not the first artist to come out and denounce the use of his song at March for Australia events.
Country music singer John Williamson and punk rock band The Living End have publicly criticised the use of their music at the rallies, while PR representatives for Jimmy Barnes and Icehouse have said no approval was sought or granted to play their music at the same events.
“To be absolutely clear, the goals and philosophies of these marches are abhorrent to us, and we don’t support them in any way,” The Living End said.
“Our songs are written to bring people together, not to divide them, and especially not to be used in this way.
“In summary: F— Nazis.”
Williamson said: “True Blue is a song for all Australians and should not be hijacked by any group that seeks to use the song to sow division.
“I believe in a multicultural society – one where all Australians come together in unity to celebrate our unique multicultural nature and freedoms.”
