D:Ream, the band known for their 1997 hit “Things Can Only Get Better,” which was used by New Labour during their election victory, would deny any request from Sir Keir Starmer to use the song in the upcoming General Election. Founding members Alan Mackenzie and Peter Cunnah expressed dismay when they heard the song play during Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s election announcement on July 4, 2024. The band emphasized their regret for allowing Tony Blair to use the track in 1997, citing negative associations with the Iraq war. Cunnah, speaking from Donegal, and Mackenzie from the Midlands, stated they do not wish to see their music entwined with politics again.