Belle and Sebastian have written a new song, It Only Takes One Lion, as an unofficial anthem for the Scotland national football team following their dramatic qualification for the World Cup. The track, which debuted at the Royal Albert Hall in London in April, was inspired by the team's current celebratory song, Baccara's 1977 hit Yes Sir, I Can Boogie.
Inspiration from a Dramatic Victory
Lead singer Stuart Murdoch said the lyrics came to him in the hazy aftermath of Scotland's playoff victory over Denmark. Having supported the team for over 50 years, he felt compelled to create an anthem capturing the joy and relief of qualification. "Most people recognised instantly the next day that they'd witnessed the most important Scottish game ever," Murdoch remarked. "That was our magic moment."
The song opens with a nod to the team's historic struggles: "You gave us hope, you gave us despair." It builds into a bombastic, danceable singalong with self-deprecating lyrics such as "This is Scotland, where everybody knows you start with nothing," and pays tribute to the Tartan Army with the line "you can join an army that's for peace."
A Musical Shift for the Band
Football has long been a passion for Murdoch, an Ayr United fan, and Belle and Sebastian have touched on the sport before, notably in Another Sunny Day, a tale of Sunday league woes. However, It Only Takes One Lion represents a different approach. Its upbeat, four-on-the-floor rhythm is directly influenced by Yes Sir, I Can Boogie, which has been played at Hampden Park after recent Scotland wins. "I like the thought that they just might play It Only Takes One Lion after a game, that's what I fantasise about," Murdoch said.
The song is set for release on 2 June, coinciding with Scotland's preparation for their first World Cup tournament since 1998. The team faces a tough group stage draw against Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti. Despite the challenge, Murdoch remains optimistic, hoping the team can avoid unnecessary drama.
A Playful Dig at England
Murdoch acknowledges that It Only Takes One Lion is a light-hearted jab at England's anthem Three Lions by Baddiel and Skinner, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this summer. "It was done in a nice way," he said, adding that he would support England if Scotland are eliminated early from the tournament.
The band's US tour concludes on the same night Scotland play Haiti in their opening group game. Murdoch may try to watch later matches, despite the high ticket prices set by FIFA. "We're going to play it by ear," he explained. "I'm hoping the song does well and we'll get invited to a game."
Nostalgia and Heartbreak
Murdoch's earliest World Cup memories date back to 1974, when Scotland were eliminated in the first round despite remaining unbeaten and conceding just one goal. Further heartbreak followed in 1978, when a formidable squad featuring Alan Hansen, Graeme Souness, and Kenny Dalglish returned early from Argentina, despite Archie Gemmill's legendary goal. It Only Takes One Lion serves as both a celebration of the current team and a tribute to the enduring passion of Scottish football fans.
