Billy Bragg, an English singer-songwriter and activist, recently responded to Oliver Anthony’s viral hit song, “Rich Men North of Richmond.” Bragg was initially intrigued by the song, which criticizes the low wages and working conditions faced by many workers. However, he soon realized that Anthony’s lyrics attacking welfare recipients were not intended as a parody but were instead sincere.
In his own song, titled “Rich Men Earning North of a Million,” Bragg places the blame for societal issues squarely on the shoulders of wealthy individuals. He suggests that these rich men are actively working to keep the working class down. Bragg’s lyrics encourage those who are dissatisfied with the current system to join unions, organize, and fight for better wages.
In a companion essay published in The Guardian, Bragg further explains his views. He argues that Anthony’s song actually reinforces the division between the rich and the poor, despite claiming solidarity with workers. According to Bragg, Anthony’s lyrics imply that the solution to societal problems is to cut taxes and welfare, which ultimately benefits the wealthy. Bragg considers this narrative to be a classic example of how bosses have historically pitted workers against one another to distract from their own exploitation. He urges readers to read his full essay and listen to his response song.
By addressing these issues and advocating for workers’ rights, Bragg’s song and essay shed light on the power dynamics at play in society and emphasize the importance of solidarity among the working class.
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