Dexys Midnight Runners’ Kevin Rowland Is ‘Disgusted’ That ‘Come On Eileen’ Played at Reform U.K. Conference

Dexys Midnight Runners frontman Kevin Rowland expressed his disgust over the use of their iconic song "Come On Eileen" at the Reform U.K. party conference. The far-right politician Nigel Farage was recorded walking to the stage during the national conference held at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre from September 3-5. Farage's entrance was reportedly delayed due to security measures and protests, causing the song to play from the speakers.

Rowland, who is the son of Irish immigrants and the main songwriter of "Come On Eileen," shared his disappointment on the band's social media, stating that he and all members of Dexys are against Farage's political views. The post featured an image of a bus shelter poster with Farage's picture and a headline criticizing his stance on migrants and billionaires.

Farage's Reform U.K. party is currently under investigation for potential foreign funding law violations, according to Channel 4 News. Rowland and Dexys have yet to receive a response from Farage regarding his controversial actions. Dexys Midnight Runners, formed in 1978, had three successful albums in the early-to-mid 1980s, with "Come On Eileen" being one of their biggest hits.

The band has continued to release solo and new music since then and is currently touring the United Kingdom in support of their latest album, LOVE, which was released on Heavenly Recordings.