Brand New Boots and Panties was released in 2001 as a tribute album to Ian Dury, marking 25 years since the original 1977 album of the same name. The project featured contemporary artists interpreting songs from Dury’s catalogue.
Robbie Williams contributed a cover of Sweet Gene Vincent, one of Dury’s most acclaimed compositions. His version retains the spoken word inflections and melodic phrasing of the original while adopting a polished studio arrangement.
Lyrically, Sweet Gene Vincent pays homage to the American rock and roll singer Gene Vincent, reflecting on fame and decline. Williams’ interpretation underscores the song’s narrative character, aligning with his established affinity for theatrical delivery.
The album served as a celebration of Dury’s influence on British music. Williams’ participation placed him among a generation of artists acknowledging Dury’s impact on late twentieth century songwriting.