Twenty Thousand Hertz The Nursery Rhyme That Ruined a Rock Band
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Sep 24, 2025 
Tim Harford, a writer and narrator known for his engaging storytelling, delves into the tangled history of Men At Work's 'Down Under' and the controversial Kookaburra dispute. He reveals how a seemingly innocent quiz question sparked a major copyright lawsuit. Listeners learn about the origins of both songs, the legal challenges faced by Men At Work, and the impact on band members like Greg Ham. The discussion explores the balance between musical inspiration and copyright law, highlighting the human cost of such legal battles.
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Quiz Show Sparked A Lawsuit
- A TV quiz moment on Spicks and Specks revealed Men at Work's flute riff sounded like a nursery rhyme.
- That throwaway exchange triggered Norm Lurie to investigate and later sue the band.
Flute Hook Was An Improvised Addition
- Greg Ham added a flute hook to Down Under during jam sessions after joining Men at Work.
- The riff became iconic and was described by Ham as an "Aussie cliché" melody.
Origins Of Kookaburra Song
- Marion Sinclair wrote "Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree" for a Girl Guides competition in 1934.
- The round became widely sung internationally but Sinclair initially didn't pursue royalties.