Waving Flags

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British Sea Power

About Waving Flags

"Waving Flags" is the first single to be released from British Sea Power's third studio album Do You Like Rock Music?. It was released on 7 January 2008 (UK) in CD and Vinyl format, as well being available as a digital download. It entered the UK Singles Chart at number 31, and the BBC Radio 1 Independent Label Singles chart at number one. The song was re-released in September 2008 to coincide with their Mercury Music Prize nomination. The track can also be heard on E4's Skins where it plays out the Franky episode from Series 5.  


Year:
2015
142 
#1

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British Sea Power

British Sea Power are an indie rock band based in Brighton, England, although three of the band members originally come from Kendal in Cumbria. The wide-ranging nature of their material has led critics to liken their sound to a variety of groups, from The Cure and Joy Division to the Pixies and Arcade Fire. The band are famed for their live performances, the unusual lyrical content of their songs and the adventurous choice of locations for some of their shows. British Sea Power's members are Yan (Scott Wilkinson; vocals, guitar), Noble (Martin Noble; guitar), Hamilton (Neil Hamilton Wilkinson; bass guitar, vocals, guitar), Wood (Matthew Wood; drums), Phil Sumner (cornet, keyboards) and Abi Fry (viola). more »

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12 facts about this song

Album Release
"Waving Flags" is a song by English indie rock band British Sea Power, released in their third studio album, "Do You Like Rock Music?" in 2008.
Chart Performance
The song reached number 31 on the UK Singles Chart, marking the highest peak for any of the band's singles to date.
Political Influence
"Waving Flags" has been interpreted as a commentary on UK immigration policy. The lyrics encourage welcoming immigrants with open arms.
Music Composition
The song stands out for its soaring choruses and anthemic charm, representing the band's unique blend of indie rock and post-punk music.
Critics Response
Critics acclaimed the song for its rich, layered sound and emotionally resonant lyrics.
Award Nomination
The album "Do You Like Rock Music?" which includes the song "Waving Flags," was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2008.
Live Performances
This song has remained one of British Sea Power's most popular tunes in live performances, often with audiences joining in on the chorus.
Songwriting
The song was composed by the band members Yan, Noble, Hamilton, and Wood.
Music Video
The music video for "Waving Flags" features the band performing amidst a crowd of jubilant flag-wavers.
Love for Nature
Like many of British Sea Power’s other songs, “Waving Flags” is staged against a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes, reflecting the band’s well-known fascination with nature.
Social Impact
Lyrics of "Waving Flags" have been used in several immigration-related discussions and campaigns given their positive depiction of immigrants.
Iconic Line
The line "Drink to the death, drink to the birth" from the song became famous amongst the fans for its stark and symbolic representation of life and death.

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