‘The song and most of our topical lyrics, make it very clear where we stand, and it’s the antithesis of this organization’
19:11, 13 Sep 2025Updated 19:13, 13 Sep 2025
Tim Booth from James said he was ‘disgusted’ by Tommy Robinson’s use of the band’s music(Image: Freya Barber)
James frontman Tim Booth has hit out after Tommy Robinson used Sit Down to promote today’s anti-migrant demo in London.
In a social media video the far-right activist, real name Stephen Laxley-Lennon, used the Manchester band’s best-known song over aerial footage of the rally, alongside a post that read: “Britain is awake, we are no longer afraid, you will not take our right to free speech. Kier Starmer, we want our country back.”
In response Booth posted on X: “Disgusted to see the cynical use of ‘Sit Down’ by @TRobinsonNewEra. No permission was granted, and we are looking into our options.
“The song and most of our topical lyrics, make it very clear where we stand, and it’s the antithesis of this organization.”
Tommy Robinson pictured at today’s rally(Image: Getty Images)
More than 110,000 people descended on London for Saturday’s protest, which was organised by Robinson. During the demo the Met Police said a crowd of protesters ‘attacked’ officers with ‘projectiles’.
Some 500 extra officers were drafted into central London as protestors and counter-protestors clashed at the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ march.
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The protest saw controversial figures like Katie Hopkins and Laurence Fox join Robinson as the far-right activist made a speech to thousands of followers.
Tech boss Elon Musk also addressed the rally via video link. Labour MP Diane Abbott was among those leading the counter-protest and said the people behind the Unite the Kingdom protest are spreading ‘dangerous lies’ about men of colour.