NHL playoff 2023- image source
Our selection encompasses a wide range, spanning from the attention-grabbing to the innovative to the downright awkward. And rest assured, we hold no prejudice when it comes to the most unpleasant options.
As the NHL playoffs approach, fans of the sport are gearing up for some intense action. The NHL playoffs are widely regarded as one of the most thrilling and competitive sporting events in the world, and for good reason. With high stakes and fierce competition, the games can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking for fans.
One aspect of the playoffs that adds to the excitement is the tradition of playing goal songs after each score. As the Toronto Maple Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning face off in the NHL playoffs, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of the Maple Leafs’ goal song, Hall & Oates’ “You Make My Dreams (Come True)”.
While some may find the song irritating, it has become a beloved tradition for Maple Leafs fans and serves as a rallying cry for the team during the playoffs. If the Leafs manage to score on home ice during the NHL playoffs, fans can expect to hear the song blaring through the Scotiabank Arena.
Of course, not all NHL playoff goal songs are created equal. Some are catchy and creative, while others are downright annoying. But regardless of the song choice, the NHL playoffs are sure to deliver some unforgettable moments for fans of the sport.
As the NHL playoffs get underway, fans of the sport are eagerly anticipating the return of some of their favorite goal songs. Celebratory songs played after a goal is scored have become a staple of NHL games, with some songs becoming synonymous with certain teams and their fan bases.
In recognition of the importance of these goal songs, we have meticulously evaluated and ranked the top five best and five worst celebratory songs in the NHL. Our rankings were based on various criteria, including creativity, sing-along value, and indigenous quality, or how well the song reflects the team culture and fan base.
It should be noted that some teams, such as the Buffalo Sabres, Florida Panthers, and Washington Capitals, have opted for individual songs for each player, similar to walk-up music in baseball. However, for the purpose of this list, we focused solely on team goal songs.
Whether you love or hate a particular goal song, there’s no denying that it can add an extra level of excitement to NHL playoff games. So as the playoffs heat up and the goals start pouring in, keep your ears peeled for these iconic celebratory tunes.
Top 5 NHL Goal Songs:
- Blackhawks Song: “Chelsea Dagger” by The Fratellis
This mid-1990s punk-rock party tune has become a transcendent sports anthem used by pro soccer clubs, college and pro hockey teams alike. The guitar-driven chorus line is custom-designed for exuberant crowds.
- Hurricanes Song: “Raise Up” by Petey Pablo
The Hurricanes are ahead of the curve with this 20-year-old hip-hop tune, which serves as an ode to their home state of North Carolina. The catchy chorus line, “North Carolinaaa, c’mon and raise up! Take your shirt off, twist it around your hand…” adds a fitting touch.
- Stars Song: “Puck Off” by Pantera
Crafted specifically for the Stars by iconic heavy metal band Pantera, this head-banger features a rapid-fire drumbeat, a chant of “Dallas!… Stars!” and a thrashy guitar riff. The fact that Pantera’s founding members are deceased adds poignance to this original goal song.
- Rangers Song: “Slapshot” by Ray Castoldi
Crafted by Madison Square Garden’s musical director and organist, this goal song is nearing its 30th birthday and remains universally embraced by the fan base. With a brief, churning guitar riff followed by a rapid-fire drumbeat and the contagious chorus of “Goooaaaallll!”, it’s mesmerizing.
- Kraken Song: “Lithium” by Nirvana
Ranked as the No. 1 goal song in a recent poll, this early-1990s grunge classic fits Seattle’s franchise like a flannel shirt. Kurt Cobain’s gritty, guttural “Yeaaaahhhhhh” kicks it off, followed by the Climate Pledge Arena chanting “Let’s Go Kraken!” Pure nirvana indeed.
Honorable Mention:
Predators Song: “I Like It, I Love It” by Tim McGraw; “Gold on the Ceiling” by The Black Keys
Perfectly indigenous to Nashville’s eclectic music scene, McGraw’s southern-fried chorus line seamlessly transitions into a catchy rock tune.
Wild Song: “Shout” by The Isley Brothers
Though not an original idea, this frat-house staple from 60 years ago still works with its contagious chorus of “You know you make me wannna SHOUT”.
Coyotes Song: “Howlin’ For You” by The Black Keys
A bluesy tune with a guitar lick from the Mississippi Delta that transitions into a contagious singalong chorus.
Top 5 Worst NHL Goal Songs:
- Red Wings Song: “Let’s Go Red Wings” by Fred Coury
As much as it pains us, this goal song by the former Cinderella drummer is vanilla and lacks originality.
- Blue Jackets Song: “For Those About to Rock” by AC/DC
This bombastic AC/DC anthem starts strong with Brian Johnson’s gritty howl, but then goes off the tracks with a bubble-gum pop chorus, which is discombobulating and disappointing.
- Sharks Song: “Get Ready for This” by 2 Unlimited
A synth-heavy, 30-year-old pseudo-rap song that has oversaturated the sports landscape and now feels outdated.
- Canucks Song: “Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds
This song only works as the cinematic soundtrack for the 1980s teen-angst masterpiece “The Breakfast Club”.
- Maple Leafs Song: “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” by Hall & Oates
Using a 40-year-old, keyboard-driven pop tune with a do
