The 5 Best Fan Chants and Songs in the English Premier League
Fan chants and songs are an integral part of football culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the English Premier League. These chants and songs create an electrifying atmosphere in stadiums, showcasing the passion and loyalty of supporters.
As a part of our series on stadiums and atmospheres, this article explores the five best EPL chants and songs, delving into their origins, meanings, and impact on the game.
You can also read our list of the 5 best Premier League stadiums by clicking here.
5. “Blue Moon” – Manchester City
Origin and History
“Blue Moon” was written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1934. Manchester City fans adopted the song in the late 1980s. The exact reason for its adoption remains unclear, but it is believed that its melancholic tone resonated with City fans during a period of underachievement.
Impact
Over the years, “Blue Moon” has transformed from a song of lament to one of celebration, especially following Manchester City’s recent successes. It is sung by City supporters before and during matches, creating a poignant and unifying atmosphere at the Etihad Stadium. The song’s evolution mirrors the club’s rise to prominence in English and European football.
4. “Marching on Together” – Leeds United
Though not a Premier League team at the moment, it is hard to leave out Elland Road and its powerful call for unity.
Origin and History
“Marching on Together,” also known as “Leeds! Leeds! Leeds!” was released as a single in 1972 to coincide with Leeds United’s FA Cup final appearance. Written by Les Reed and Barry Mason, the song quickly became a staple for the club’s supporters.
Impact
The chant is a rallying cry for Leeds United fans, symbolising unity and determination. It is sung at every home game at Elland Road and often during away matches. The song’s powerful lyrics and melody encapsulate the fighting spirit of Leeds fans, creating a loud and intimidating atmosphere that spurs the team on.
3. “Blaydon Races” – Newcastle United
Origin and History
“Blaydon Races” is a Geordie folk song written by George Ridley in 1862. It recounts a trip from Newcastle to the Blaydon Races and has become an unofficial anthem for Newcastle United. The song is deeply rooted in the local culture and history of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Impact
“Blaydon Races” is sung passionately by Newcastle fans, known as the Toon Army, before every home game at St James’ Park. The song’s strong regional ties, along with the lyrics’ strong Geordie accent, make it a symbol of local pride and identity. Its lively and upbeat nature helps to energise the crowd and the team, creating a formidable home advantage.
2. “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles” – West Ham United
Origin and History
“I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles” was written in 1918 by John Kellette, with lyrics by Jaan Kenbrovin and music by Nat Ayer. The song was adopted by West Ham United fans in the late 1920s. Its adoption is linked to a player nicknamed “Bubbles” who played for a local school team that shared the ground with West Ham.
Here you can see the last time that the old Hammers’ stadium, Boleyn Ground, witnessed the famous song.
Impact
The song is an enduring part of West Ham’s heritage, sung with gusto by the fans at the London Stadium nowadays. The bubbles blown into the air by fans during the song create a unique visual spectacle. The lyrics, which speak of dreams fading and dying, reflect the resilience and enduring hope of West Ham supporters.
1. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – Liverpool
Origin and History
“You’ll Never Walk Alone” is arguably the most famous football anthem in the world, synonymous with Liverpool Football Club. The song originated from the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “Carousel” and was popularised by the Liverpool band Gerry and the Pacemakers in 1963. The track quickly became an anthem for Liverpool fans, and it is traditionally sung before the start of every home game at Anfield.
Impact
The song embodies the spirit of unity and support among Liverpool fans. It has been adopted by other clubs around the world, but its association with Liverpool remains the strongest. The powerful chorus, often sung in unison by tens of thousands of fans, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere that can intimidate opponents and uplift the Reds.