Newcastle United have released a new recording of their iconic anthem 'The Blaydon Races', a project developed with direct input from supporters and featuring a host of North East musical talent. The refreshed track, which will make its matchday debut this Saturday when the team host Aston Villa, comes in three distinct versions: a Stadium Track, a Radio Edit, and an Extended Version that includes all the song's original verses.
Produced in partnership with Interval Records, the recording features vocals from North Shields band Hector Gannet, the organ of St. Nicholas Cathedral, and the pipes of Northumbrian musician Chris Ormston. The club worked closely with fan groups, including the Disabled Supporters Association and the Fan Advisory Board, in a series of workshops and listening sessions to guide the project. Their feedback directly influenced the tempo, singalong quality, and the overall sound designed to resonate within St. James' Park.
Supporter feedback shaped the anthem’s sound
Supporters played a central role in shaping the release, emphasising the song's dual importance as a matchday tradition and a symbol of North East culture. The club's marketing leadership highlighted this collaborative spirit. Steven Taylor, the Chief Marketing Officer, said: "The crest and The Blaydon Races are two of the most powerful expressions of what Newcastle United means to our fans." The track was produced and engineered by Alex Blamire, ensuring the new versions stayed true to the song's heritage while feeling fresh.
Anthem set for matchday debut
The Extended Version will premiere at St James’ Park ahead of the 5.30pm kick-off against Aston Villa on 17 October. The debut will be accompanied by a pre-match live performance from Hector Gannet and the screening of a new music video that celebrates everyday life and a sense of belonging across the region. This initiative aims to strengthen the matchday atmosphere as Eddie Howe's side, currently 11th in the Premier League with eight points from six games, looks to bounce back from a 4-1 defeat at Coventry last time out.
The club sits five points and five places above their weekend opponents, who are 16th, and will be hoping the renewed anthem can help inspire a performance similar to their 3-1 win at Villa Park last February. With 10 goals scored but 13 conceded so far this season, tightening up at the back will be a priority. The new recording of 'The Blaydon Races', a cornerstone of the matchday experience for decades, is now set to become a fresh part of that tradition for fans around the world. The club's complete squad list is available for supporters to view ahead of the game.
The original report is at newcastleunited.com
