Blue Jays 7th Inning Song: Lyrics & History
\nOkay, Blue Jays fans, let's dive into the heart of the Rogers Centre and talk about that iconic 7th inning stretch! You know, that moment when everyone gets up, maybe grabs another drink or a hot dog, and belts out a tune? It's a baseball tradition as old as, well, baseball itself. But what exactly is the Blue Jays' 7th inning song, and why do we sing it? Let's break it down.
"OK Blue Jays" – The Anthem
Most of the time, what you're hearing is "OK Blue Jays," the team's official song. This isn't some ancient ballad passed down through generations, guys. It was actually written in 1983! The minds behind this catchy tune are James Dombrowsk**i and Tom Class. Think about that for a second – these guys crafted a song that's become synonymous with Blue Jays baseball. Their contribution has etched its place in the hearts of fans, instantly recognizable and eagerly anticipated at every game. Imagine the thrill of creating something so deeply ingrained in the team's identity and the collective experience of thousands of fans. The song encapsulates the spirit of the game, embodying the hopes, excitement, and unwavering support that define the Blue Jays community. So, the next time you find yourself singing along during the 7th inning stretch, take a moment to appreciate the creativity and passion that went into crafting this timeless anthem. The impact of "OK Blue Jays" extends beyond the ballpark, resonating with fans of all ages and backgrounds. It's a symbol of unity, bringing people together to celebrate their love for the team and the sport. From the opening chords to the final refrain, the song evokes a sense of pride and belonging, reminding us that we're all part of something bigger than ourselves. It's a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift generations of Blue Jays fans to come, ensuring that the spirit of the game lives on in every note.
Lyrics
So, what are the words you should be shouting at the top of your lungs? Here you go:
OK Blue Jays! Let's play ball! Root, root, root for the Blue Jays! OK Blue Jays! Let's win today! Root, root, root for the Blue Jays!
(Chorus) Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays! Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays! Touch 'em all, Joe, you'll never be blue Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays!
OK Blue Jays! Let's play ball! Root, root, root for the Blue Jays! OK Blue Jays! Let's win today! Root, root, root for the Blue Jays!
(Chorus) Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays! Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays! Touch 'em all, Joe, you'll never be blue Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays!
Pretty simple, right? Easy to remember, even after a couple of those stadium beers. The repetition of "Blue Jays" drills it into your head, making sure you're ready to cheer at full volume. The lyrics also are crafted to be memorable and infectious, ensuring that fans of all ages can easily join in the fun. The simple, repetitive structure of the verses makes it easy for even the newest fans to learn the words and sing along with enthusiasm. The chorus, with its rallying cry of "Blue Jays, Blue Jays, Blue Jays!", becomes a unifying force, bringing together fans from all walks of life in a shared expression of support. And who could forget the iconic line, "Touch 'em all, Joe, you'll never be blue"? It's a playful nod to the team's aspirations and a reminder that even in the face of challenges, there's always hope for victory. So, whether you're a seasoned veteran of the stands or a first-time attendee, the lyrics of "OK Blue Jays" provide a common language that unites us all in our love for the team.
Why the 7th Inning Stretch?
Okay, so why do we have this tradition in the first place? Well, there are a couple of theories. The most popular one credits Harry Wright,** a player and manager in the late 1800s. The story goes that during a particularly long game, Wright saw fans getting restless and decided to call for a break. He figured a little stretching and walking around would help everyone stay awake and engaged. Now, whether that's actually true is up for debate, but it's a good story, right? And that need to stand up and stretch makes sense. I mean, sitting for hours, especially on those hard stadium seats, can make even the most die-hard fan a little stiff. The 7th inning stretch is a welcome opportunity to get the blood flowing, loosen up those muscles, and prepare for the final innings of the game. It's a chance to shake off any tension, reconnect with your fellow fans, and recharge your energy for the remaining action. Beyond the physical benefits, the 7th inning stretch also serves as a symbolic transition point in the game. It marks the shift from the middle innings to the crucial final stages, where every play can have a significant impact on the outcome. It's a moment to reflect on what has transpired so far, assess the team's performance, and rally together to support them in their quest for victory. So, whether you believe the legend of Harry Wright or simply appreciate the opportunity to stretch your legs, the 7th inning stretch remains an integral part of the baseball experience, a tradition that connects generations of fans in a shared ritual of camaraderie and support.
Other Songs You Might Hear
While "OK Blue Jays" is the go-to, sometimes you'll hear other tunes sprinkled in during the 7th inning or at other points in the game. These can change depending on the year, the team's current vibe, or even special events. It could be a classic rock anthem, a pop hit, or even a Canadian tune to show some local pride. One song that has become a staple at many baseball games, including Blue Jays games, is "Take Me Out to the Ballgame." This song is practically synonymous with baseball, and it's often sung during the 7th inning stretch as well. It adds to the communal feeling of the game, as almost everyone knows the words and can sing along. This song actually became popular because Harry Caray, a famous baseball announcer, would sing it during the 7th inning of Chicago Cubs games. His enthusiastic renditions of the song made it a fan favorite, and the tradition spread to other ballparks across the country. Now, it's hard to imagine a baseball game without hearing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" at some point. Even though "OK Blue Jays" is the team's official song, these other tunes help keep things fresh and add to the overall atmosphere of the game. So, next time you're at the Rogers Centre, pay attention to the music being played. You might discover a new favorite song or hear a familiar tune that gets you pumped up for the rest of the game. The music, along with the cheers, the excitement, and the camaraderie, all contribute to the unique and unforgettable experience of attending a Blue Jays game. After all, music plays a vital role in setting the mood, enhancing the atmosphere, and creating lasting memories. It's another way that baseball connects with its fans, bringing them together to celebrate their love for the game and the team.
The Evolution of Baseball Songs
It is important to note how much baseball songs, in general, have changed and evolved over the years. In the early days of baseball, songs were often simple and straightforward, focusing on themes of patriotism, teamwork, and the love of the game. These songs were often sung by fans in the stands, accompanied by simple instruments like guitars or harmonicas. As baseball became more popular, so did the music associated with it. In the early 20th century, Tin Pan Alley songwriters began writing songs specifically for baseball, creating catchy tunes that celebrated the sport and its heroes. One of the most famous of these songs is "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," which was written in 1908 and has become an iconic part of baseball culture. This song is so deeply ingrained in the sport that it's hard to imagine a game without it. Announcers, fans, and even players know the lyrics to this song. The evolution has not stopped there. In recent years, baseball teams have started to incorporate more contemporary music into their games, playing popular songs during breaks in the action and using music to create a more exciting and engaging atmosphere. Some teams have even commissioned original songs to be used as team anthems, similar to "OK Blue Jays." These songs often reflect the team's identity and history, and they're used to rally fans and create a sense of unity. Now, baseball songs aren't just simple tunes, they are marketing tools. The trend has spread to include walk-up songs for individual players, which are chosen by the players themselves and are often used to showcase their personalities and pump up the crowd. Overall, the evolution of baseball songs reflects the changing nature of the sport itself. As baseball has become more commercialized and more focused on entertainment, the music associated with it has become more sophisticated and more diverse. From simple folk songs to catchy pop tunes, baseball music has something for everyone, and it continues to evolve and adapt to the changing tastes of fans. The next time you are in the stadium, think of what it used to be like, and what it will be like moving forward.
In Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks! The story behind the Blue Jays' 7th inning song and the tradition of the 7th inning stretch. Next time you're at a game, sing loud, sing proud, and Go Jays Go! Whether it is the official anthem, "OK Blue Jays" or the baseball classic "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," make sure to sing it loud. You can be sure the players appreciate it. I hope that this article was insightful, have a great time at the next game!
