British politician-turned-singer Norman Baker may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of protest songs or live pub gigs — but perhaps it should be.
His track “Give War A Chance” is a sharp, unexpected standout. With the cutting lyric “Envoy of Peace but War in Mind,” Baker skewers the hypocrisy and doublespeak so often embedded in international diplomacy. It’s thoughtful, provocative – and, perhaps most surprisingly, genuinely catchy. There’s real craftsmanship here, both in the songwriting and its delivery.
What makes it all the more compelling is how naturally Baker has transitioned from Westminster politics to the stage. Best known as a former MP and Transport Minister, he’s found in music not just a hobby, but a vital new voice. His songs reflect a seasoned political mind, but they’re never didactic. Instead, they’re human – often biting, sometimes humorous, and always sincere.
Importantly, Baker’s activism has never stopped at party lines. He’s been a consistent and outspoken advocate for Tibet, using his time in Parliament to highlight human rights abuses and call out China’s treatment of the Tibetan people. His long-standing support for the Dalai Lama and Tibet’s struggle has been principled and unwavering – and now, that deep sense of solidarity is beginning to shape his music as well.
I had the chance to catch Baker and his band live a few years ago with a few friends at a cozy pub tucked away in beautiful East Sussex. The setting was intimate and unfiltered – exactly the kind of venue where music speaks loudest. From the first chord, it was clear Baker wasn’t just dabbling. His presence on stage had a quiet authority, but also real warmth and vitality. The performance wasn’t flashy, but it was authentic – driven by purpose rather than polish. The band played with tight chemistry, and the audience – a mix of curious locals and loyal fans – was fully engaged.
Baker’s live shows feel less like a performance and more like a conversation. He has something to say, and he’s found a compelling, accessible way to say it. Songs like “Give War A Chance” don’t pull punches – but they also don’t preach. They’re crafted to make you think, and maybe even hum along while you do.
Looking ahead, one can’t help but hope Baker takes the next logical step and considers a follow-up track – “Give Peace a Chance.” Not just as a thematic sequel, but as a musical tribute to a cause he’s championed for decades. With the Dalai Lama turning 90 this year, and Tibet’s Government-in-Exile declaring July 2025 to July 2026 the “Year of Compassion,” the timing couldn’t be more powerful – or more personal.
A song dedicated to Tibet, and to His Holiness’s enduring message of peace, would not only highlight Baker’s continued advocacy but also give voice to a global community that often goes unheard. It would be a meaningful fusion of his political legacy and musical evolution – and a tribute that could resonate far beyond the stage.
In an age of overproduced, algorithm-chasing music, Norman Baker’s work stands apart: honest, relevant, and rooted in lived experience. Whether or not you followed his political career, there’s something here worth listening to – and worth reflecting on.
Highly recommended – especially if you get the chance to see him live. And here’s hoping the next song gives peace its moment.
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 