Bambi

About

Bambi appears on Under the Radar Vol. 2 and was written by Robbie Williams, Tim Metcalfe and Piers Baron, with production by Metcalfe and Baron. The song channels the swagger of 1990s Madchester bands such as the Happy Mondays and Black Grape, fusing funk-infused guitar, loose rhythms and spoken vocals with a sharp pop chorus. Williams described it as “Sean Ryder on chamomile tea,” a playful tribute to his youth and to the hedonism of 1994 and 1995.

In the track-by-track commentary, Williams explained that Bambi captured his memories of leaving Stoke-on-Trent for the city, drinking Red Stripe and “wanting to get up to mischief.” The lyric follows a narrator seeking adventure and release, balancing nostalgia with humour. Phrases like “We’re so pragmatic, it’s like fucking magic” and “Take me to the water, I’m walking like Bambi” evoke the chaos and innocence of early fame.

Musically, the song layers bright brass, dance beats and backing vocals imitating the rhythm of a train—an intentional nod to its imagery of travel and restlessness. The result is a vibrant, groove-driven track that stands out for its humour and energy amid the album’s more reflective moments.

“It’s about wanting to get up to mischief on a train from Stoke-on-Trent, drinking Red Stripe and being naughty. It captures the spirit of ’94 and ’95, finding my tribe and getting lost together.”Robbie Williams

Fans have praised Bambi for its wit, rhythm and exuberance, calling it one of the most distinctive songs in the Under the Radar series. Its blend of indie attitude and pop craftsmanship recalls Williams’ early solo work while showcasing his continuing affection for the euphoric sound of 1990s British music culture.