Did he do his anthem to organised labour, Between the Wars? No.
Only new stuff, eh? Actually, he was participating in a debate on unionisation.
Wait, let me get my lighter out. For roadies.
Roadies? Bragg is backing the launch of the Roadcrew Provident Syndicate, which will be a branch of the GMB. Coldplay are also said to be supporting the initiative.
A union for roadies? "It's about time that we made sure our co-workers were looked after in this department," says Bragg.
But aren't roadies traditionally quasi-employable loners with a tendency to live for the moment? Where did you get that idea?
From all those roadie jokes. What roadie jokes?
You know, like: What do you call a roadie who's had a fight with his girlfriend? Homeless. I find that extremely offensive.
Or: How many drummers does it take to change a light bulb? Just one, as long as the roadie gets the ladder for him, sets it up and places the bulb in the socket. That's a drummer joke. The roadie is just an incidental character.
Well then, how about: What does it mean when drool comes out of both sides of the lead guitarist's mouth? I know that one. It means the stage is level.
It's funny though, innit? So comrade, would you like a membership form?
You talkin' to me, man? Easy now. Just sign here.
Do say: "Sex and Drugs and Equal Pay!"
And also: "Live Fast, Die Young and Leave an Adequate Pension!"
Don't say: "Why doesn't Billy Bragg just shut his gob and play music?"
And also: "If the roadies form a union, groupies won't take it lying down."
