The Killers Halt O2 Concert to Celebrate England’s Euro 2024 Semifinal Victory, Followed by ‘Mr. Brightside’ Performance
Over the years, numerous pop and rock songs have become intertwined with the English men’s national soccer team, and the latest addition is The Killers’ 2004 single “Mr. Brightside.” This song by the Las Vegas band has enjoyed global popularity and has become a fixture at various sporting events, including Michigan Wolverines’ football games. Its popularity in the United Kingdom is particularly noteworthy, where it is frequently heard in bars, clubs, and other settings. Earlier this year, “Mr. Brightside” achieved the distinction of becoming the UK’s third-best-selling song ever in terms of sales and streams. Last week, The Killers were honored with Guinness World Records for the most cumulative weeks on the UK singles chart (one song) and the longest stay on the UK singles chart by a group, totaling 416 weeks at that point.
The stage was set for a special moment on Wednesday night. The Killers were amidst a six-date residency at London’s O2 Arena, with Wednesday marking the fifth concert of the series. However, they faced significant competition from England’s Euro 2024 semifinal match against the Netherlands. Undeterred, the band projected the match on the arena’s big screen and, ten songs into their set, paused to watch the final two minutes of the game along with their fans. Following England’s thrilling 2-1 victory secured by Ollie Watkins’ 90th-minute goal, the band celebrated with red and white confetti cannons and launched into a rousing rendition of “Mr. Brightside,” igniting a euphoric response from the crowd.
This isn’t the first time a song has become synonymous with the English men’s soccer team, officially or unofficially. Bands have also embraced this connection in the past. In 1990, New Order released “World In Motion,” featuring members of the England team, including John Barnes rapping—a move that caused mixed reactions among Joy Division fans. The iconic anthem “Three Lions,” created by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and the Lightning Seeds in 1996, continues to resonate deeply. Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” has also found popularity among both the English men’s and women’s teams, much like its reception with the Boston Red Sox and other sports teams.
One of the most unique and enjoyable intersections of music and English soccer occurred after England’s historic 5-1 victory over Germany in World Cup qualifying in 2001. The match inspired at least three songs: “England 5 – Germany 1” by the Business, “Sven Sven Sven” by Bell & Spurling, and “Keep On Movin’ – World Cup 2002 Remix” by the band Five, which prominently featured legendary announcer John Motson’s commentary. This eclectic mix stands as one of the more curious and successful blends of music and sports announcing.
As for “Mr. Brightside,” its future association with the English team remains to be seen, but its inclusion in Wednesday night’s concert added another memorable chapter to the ongoing saga of music’s connection with English soccer. For that moment at least, England fans were undoubtedly feeling “just fine” as they celebrated their team’s success.
