Enduring anthem “The Hockey Song,” written and originally performed by iconic Canadian singer Stompin’ Tom Connors, will be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (CSHF) in a ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in partnership with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Released in 1973, the beloved song is celebrating its 45th anniversary, as a staple tune played throughout North American NHL arenas, and at every Toronto Maple Leafs home game.
The quintessential Canadian song about the quintessential Canadian game, “The Hockey Song” is the most well-known example of Connors’ ardent nationalism. In Tom’s typical novelty-song style, his three verses correspond to the three periods of a hockey game, delivered in the style of a play-by-play announcer – endearing it to fans and players alike. Stompin’ Tom was often invited to perform it at NHL games, and his song became not only a hockey theme, but also an unofficial Canadian anthem.
“The Hockey Song” has been recorded by Corb Lund, George Canyon, The Good Brothers, and Avril Lavigne, and Connors’ original version reached No. 29 on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 chart on March 23, 2013, a few weeks after his death.
“This year, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame is partnering with events that share a connection with the songs we’re inducting,” said Vanessa Thomas, Executive Director of CSHF. “There’s not a more fitting stage to celebrate Stompin’ Tom’s ‘The Hockey Song’ than at an NHL game. We’re very excited to see the crowd’s passion for the song, and to honour this classic into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.”
On Oct. 27, Tom Connors Jr. – son of late Stompin’ Tom Connors – and family will be presented with a plaque recognizing the song’s induction. The CSHF will present the plaque before the Maple Leafs versus Winnipeg Jets game at Scotiabank Arena, home of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Chart-topping, award-winning Canadian artist Tim Hicks will also perform “The Hockey Song,” live, before the game.