Take Back The Power

The song Take Back The Power by The Interrupters from their self-titled debut album is a high-energy ska-punk anthem that has resonated widely with fans and beyond. Its infectious energy and empowering lyrics, like “What’s your plan for tomorrow? Are you a leader or will you follow?”, have made it a standout track. The song’s reach extended into mainstream media, featured in a T-Mobile commercial, the TV series Shameless, the 2016 MLB Home Run Derby, and even played over the end credits of Michael Moore’s 2015 documentary Where to Invade Next. More recently, it was used by Canadian sports channel TSN to promote the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship ice hockey tournament and served as the intro music for the 2020 docuseries Hillary about Hillary Clinton. These placements highlight the song’s universal appeal and its ability to capture a sense of rebellion and empowerment across different contexts.

In a 2018 Billboard interview, guitarist Kevin Bivona shared insights into the band’s collaborative spirit, noting how their close ties with punk icons like Rancid’s Tim Armstrong, who produced the track, helped shape its raw, authentic sound. Armstrong’s involvement with Take Back The Power brought a gritty, 2 Tone-inspired edge, harking back to the ska-punk revival of the ‘90s. Fans on Reddit’s r/TheInterrupters subreddit have praised the song’s live performances, describing how Aimee Interrupter’s electrifying stage presence transforms it into a communal call-to-action, with crowds shouting along to the chorus. The song’s message of seizing control and standing up has also sparked discussions on social media, with The Interrupters’ Facebook page often sharing fan stories about how the track inspires personal empowerment.

The Interrupters formed in Los Angeles in 2011, born out of a serendipitous meeting between vocalist Aimee Interrupter (then Aimee Allen) and the Bivona brothers—Kevin (guitar), Justin (bass), and Jesse (drums). The trio met Aimee in 2009 while touring with their band Telacasters, opening for The Dirty Heads and Sugar Ray, where Aimee was performing as a solo artist. By 2011, Aimee and Kevin began writing songs together, soon bringing in Jesse and Justin to complete the lineup. Their shared love for ‘90s punk and classic 2 Tone ska, combined with the brothers’ experience as studio musicians and Aimee’s background in diverse projects (including the Hairspray soundtrack and collaborations with Sublime with Rome), fueled their chemistry. Their big break came when Tim Armstrong signed them to his Hellcat Records imprint, producing their debut album, which included Take Back The Power. Early tours with punk heavyweights like Rancid, Bad Religion, and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones helped them build a loyal fanbase, known as “Zoo Freaks” to some, who connect through platforms like the Interrupters Fan Group on Facebook.

The band’s official online presence is vibrant and engaging. You can visit their website at theinterrupters.com for tour dates, music, and merch. They’re active on social media, sharing updates and interacting with fans on Facebook, Instagram, and X. For fans looking to dive deeper, the r/TheInterrupters subreddit and the Interrupters Fan Group on Facebook are great spaces to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share concert experiences, and discuss the band’s impact. These platforms reflect the band’s ethos of community and connection, mirroring the inclusive, high-energy vibe of their music and live shows.