As quintessentially Australian as meat pies or Blinky Bill, Men At Work’s, “Down Under” (dubbed the countries unofficial anthem) still maintains to this day, a powerful resonation with the people of Australia. The hit song, released in 1983 is held dear, however, some 35 years after the band’s success, ABC program, Spicks and Specks brought to light a revelation that had seemingly gone unnoticed by so many.
That discernable flute riff, written and performed (in abundance) by Greg Hamm maintains an uncanny familiarity with the Australian nursery rhyme, “Kookaburra (sits in the old gum tree)”.
Enter lawsuit. Written by Marion Sinclair in 1932, it was not the songstress herself that sought damages for copyright infringement, but rather an Australian record label.
A story that has undeniable Australian roots, filmmaker Harry Hayes (affectionately dubbed The Big Ledge) has produced a documentary that is both thought provoking and poignant, following the development of the song itself and the implications of the plagiarism saga.
However, for the film’s release to be made possible, Hayes is crowdfunding to cover the costs of licensing in addition to a variety of creative aspects that have seen the films inception.
An incredible story that deserves to see the light of day, You Better Take Cover is one to watch.
Pledge here: http://www.pozible.com/youbettertakecover
Article by Lauren Mitchell
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