20 Songs about Hockey

Hockey is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, there’s something special about the thrill of the ice, the sound of skates carving into the surface, and the sight of a puck flying past a goalie’s outstretched glove. But hockey isn’t just about the physical aspects of the game – it’s also a sport that’s steeped in tradition, culture, and history. And one way that this rich tapestry of hockey culture is expressed is through music.

From classic rock anthems to contemporary pop hits, there are countless songs that celebrate the sport of hockey and the passion and dedication of the athletes who play it. Whether you’re looking for a pumping soundtrack to get you ready for the big game or a poignant ballad to reflect on the ups and downs of the season, there’s a song out there for every mood and moment.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 songs about hockey, from iconic tracks that have become synonymous with the sport to hidden gems that you may not have heard before. We’ll look at the stories behind the songs, the emotions they evoke, and the ways in which they capture the essence of the game. So grab your sticks, lace up your skates, and get ready to rock out to the best hockey songs around.

1. “The Hockey Song” by Stompin’ Tom Connors

“The Hockey Song” is a classic Canadian anthem that captures the spirit and excitement of the sport. Written and performed by legendary musician Stompin’ Tom Connors, the song has become a beloved staple at hockey games and events across the country. With its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and clever lyrics that reference everything from Wayne Gretzky to the Flying Frenchmen, the song is an infectious celebration of all things hockey. From the first notes of the harmonica to the final chorus of “The good ol’ hockey game is the best game you can name,” “The Hockey Song” is a rousing tribute to a sport that has captured the hearts of generations of fans.

2. “Two Minutes for Looking So Good” by Belvedere

“Two Minutes for Looking So Good” is a high-energy punk rock song by the Canadian band Belvedere. The song is a playful tribute to the physicality of the game of hockey and the admiration that players have for each other’s abilities on the ice. The title is a reference to the minor penalty for “unsportsmanlike conduct” that a player can receive for taunting or excessive celebrating after a goal. The lyrics are filled with playful jabs and references to famous hockey players, such as Mario Lemieux and Mark Messier, and describe the action and intensity of a game. The fast-paced guitar riffs and pounding drums perfectly capture the excitement and energy of the sport. “Two Minutes for Looking So Good” is a fun and lighthearted song that will make any hockey fan want to lace up their skates and hit the ice.

3. “On Hockey Days” by Raffi

“On Hockey Days” is a cheerful and catchy children’s song by Raffi that celebrates the joy of playing hockey with family and friends. The song paints a picture of a cold winter day, with kids lacing up their skates and heading out to the rink to play the game they love. The lyrics are simple and easy to sing along to, and the melody is upbeat and playful, making it the perfect song for young hockey fans. Raffi’s signature warm and friendly voice adds to the song’s charm and encourages listeners to join in the fun. “On Hockey Days” is a great song for parents to play for their kids, and for coaches to use as a warm-up or cool-down song during practices and games. With its wholesome message and infectious melody, this song is sure to bring a smile to the faces of anyone who loves the game of hockey.

4. “Bob Marley and the Hartford Whalers” by The Zambonis

“Bob Marley and the Hartford Whalers” is a humorous and catchy tribute song to the now-defunct National Hockey League (NHL) team, the Hartford Whalers. The song is performed by the novelty rock band, The Zambonis, who are known for their hockey-themed songs. The lyrics are witty and tongue-in-cheek, with references to Bob Marley and the team’s whale logo. The song’s upbeat ska melody adds to its light-hearted and fun vibe, making it a popular choice among hockey fans. The Zambonis have gained a cult following within the hockey community and have become synonymous with the sport. “Bob Marley and the Hartford Whalers” is a perfect example of the band’s ability to blend humor and music, making it a favorite among hockey fans and a staple at games.

5. “The Enforcer” by Monster Truck

“The Enforcer” is a heavy rock song by the Canadian band, Monster Truck. The song is a tribute to the role of the enforcer in hockey, the player whose main job is to protect their teammates and intimidate opponents. The lyrics depict the enforcer as a tough, fearless and respected figure on the ice, and the driving rock beat adds to the song’s hard-hitting energy. “The Enforcer” has become a popular choice for hockey highlights and montage videos, as it perfectly captures the intensity and physicality of the game. With its catchy riffs and lyrics that celebrate the tough guys of hockey, “The Enforcer” is a must-listen for any hockey fan who appreciates the grit and toughness of the sport.

6. “Hockey Hair” by Pansy Division

“Hockey Hair” is a punk rock song by the American band, Pansy Division. The song is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the unique hairstyles of hockey players, particularly the mullet. The lyrics humorously describe the iconic hairstyle as a symbol of toughness and masculinity on the ice, with lines like “When he’s out on the ice, he’s a man among men” and “He’s got the look that makes the girls all stare”. With its catchy hooks and playful lyrics, “Hockey Hair” is a fun and lighthearted ode to one of the most memorable aspects of hockey culture. The song has become a cult classic among hockey fans and has even been featured in some hockey video games. If you’re looking for a catchy and irreverent song that celebrates the quirks and culture of hockey, “Hockey Hair” is a must-listen.

7. “Me Like Hockey” by Arrogant Worms

“Me Like Hockey” by Arrogant Worms is a humorous and lighthearted tribute to the Canadian national pastime, hockey. The upbeat and catchy song features playful lyrics about the joys of playing and watching hockey, such as the excitement of a slapshot, the thrill of scoring a goal, and the love for the sound of the puck hitting the boards. The chorus repeats the simple yet memorable line “Me like hockey” over and over, making it a fun and easy singalong for hockey fans of all ages.

The song also includes references to popular hockey players and teams, as well as some tongue-in-cheek jabs at the sport’s reputation for violence and rough play. Despite this, the overall tone of the song is one of genuine love and admiration for the game, and it captures the infectious energy and enthusiasm that hockey can inspire in its fans.

8. “Hockey” by Jane Siberry

“Hockey” is a charming tune by Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry that captures the excitement and passion of hockey fans. Siberry sings about the joy of playing and watching hockey, and the camaraderie and sense of community it brings. She also touches upon the hard work and sacrifice required to play the game at a high level, as well as the ups and downs of being a fan. The song has a lively, upbeat tempo, and its lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sights and sounds of a hockey game, from the sound of skates on ice to the roar of the crowd. Siberry’s distinctive vocals and melodic guitar work give the song a playful, folksy feel that is sure to resonate with fans of the sport. “Hockey” is a tribute to a beloved Canadian pastime that captures the spirit and energy of the game.

9. “Change The World With My Hockey Stick” by The Vandals

“Change The World With My Hockey Stick” is a humorous punk rock song by The Vandals that celebrates the joy and passion of playing hockey. The lyrics are filled with absurd and comical imagery, as the singer boasts about the power of his hockey stick to change the world and bring peace to the nations. The song features a fast-paced and energetic guitar riff, as well as catchy chorus that invites listeners to sing along. The band’s irreverent style and sarcastic humor are on full display in this track, making it a favorite among fans of punk rock and hockey alike. Despite the silliness of the lyrics, the song still manages to convey a sense of genuine excitement and love for the sport, capturing the camaraderie and competitive spirit that make hockey such a beloved pastime.

10. “Get Ready for This” by 2 Unlimited

“Get Ready for This” is an iconic dance and sports anthem by the Belgian electronic music duo, 2 Unlimited. The song was released in 1991 and has since been widely used in sports events, particularly in hockey games, as a pump-up song to get the audience and players energized. The upbeat tempo and repetitive chant-like melody create a thrilling and exciting atmosphere, perfect for a game of hockey. The song became so popular in the sporting world that it was even used as the entrance theme for the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks in the 1990s.

Despite being over 30 years old, “Get Ready for This” still remains a beloved and frequently played song at hockey games around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of music in sports and the unique connection that exists between the two.

11. “Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Gary Glitter

“Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Gary Glitter is a classic sports anthem, including hockey games. The song is known for its upbeat, energetic rhythm, catchy lyrics, and heavy use of the clapping sound. The chorus is particularly infectious, with the crowd chanting along to “Hey! Hey! Hey!” Glitter’s voice is commanding and dynamic, and he exhorts the listener to get up and move along with the beat. The song’s energy is perfect for building excitement and motivation, and it’s no surprise that it has been played at hockey games for decades. Although Glitter’s personal life has been mired in controversy, this song remains a staple of sports culture, and it is sure to get any hockey fan pumped up for the game.

12. “The Hockey Song” by Jughead

“The Hockey Song” by Jughead is a catchy and upbeat tribute to Canada’s national pastime. The song features driving electric guitar riffs and a driving beat, while the vocals sing about the joys of watching and playing hockey. The lyrics capture the excitement and passion of the game, with references to the roar of the crowd, the sound of skates on ice, and the thrill of scoring a goal. The chorus is a simple and memorable sing-along, with the repeated phrase “hey, hey, hockeytown” encouraging listeners to join in the celebration. This is a song that captures the essence of what it means to be a fan of the game, with its energy and enthusiasm making it a perfect addition to any hockey playlist.

13. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne

“Crazy Train” is a classic hard rock anthem by Ozzy Osbourne that has become synonymous with sporting events, particularly hockey games. The track features a thundering rhythm section, soaring guitar riffs, and Osbourne’s signature howling vocals. It’s a fast-paced, high-energy song that perfectly captures the excitement and intensity of a hockey game. The lyrics describe the chaos and madness of the world, with lines like “Mental wounds not healing / Life’s a bitter shame / I’m goin’ off the rails on a crazy train.” The track is a perfect choice to get the adrenaline pumping and the crowd hyped up for a big game. Even if you’re not a fan of hard rock or heavy metal, it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement of this iconic song.

14. “Fireworks” by The Tragically Hip

“Fireworks” is a song by the Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, which was released in 1998. The song features a driving, upbeat tempo with a prominent guitar riff and pounding drums, accompanied by lead singer Gord Downie’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics of the song refer to a hockey game, specifically the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union. Downie sings about the excitement and passion of the game, while also reflecting on the political tensions between the two countries at the time. The song’s title references the fireworks that were set off during the game’s closing ceremony. “Fireworks” has become a beloved track among fans of both The Tragically Hip and Canadian hockey, with its energy and nostalgic references to a significant moment in the country’s history.

15. “I Wanna Drive the Zamboni” by The Zambonis

“I Wanna Drive the Zamboni” is a fun and catchy song by The Zambonis that celebrates the unsung hero of hockey games, the Zamboni driver. The song’s lighthearted and humorous tone is complemented by its upbeat rhythm and driving melody. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to drive the Zamboni machine, with lines like “I wanna drive the Zamboni, I wanna ride on the resurfacer” and “I wanna be the Zamboni driver, I wanna drive the Zamboni machine.” The chorus is especially memorable, with its repeated refrain of “Zamboni, Zamboni, take me around the ice.”

As a tribute to the often-overlooked role of the Zamboni driver, “I Wanna Drive the Zamboni” has become a fan favorite at hockey games, and the song has even been played during NHL games. The Zambonis, who are named after the famous ice-resurfacing machines, are a rock band that writes and performs songs exclusively about hockey. “I Wanna Drive the Zamboni” is a standout track from their extensive catalog, and it’s sure to get fans of all ages singing and dancing along.

16. “Hit Somebody” by Warren Zevon

“Hit Somebody” by Warren Zevon is a poignant and comedic tribute to a character named Buddy who dreamed of being a hockey star, but never quite made it. The song tells the story of Buddy, who starts out as a gentle and mild-mannered player, but becomes a fighter after being mocked by his teammates for not being tough enough. Buddy goes on to become one of the most feared enforcers in the league, but is ultimately remembered for a single moment of grace when he scores a goal, fulfilling his lifelong dream. The song features a driving rock beat and witty lyrics that capture the absurdity and beauty of hockey, and has become a cult classic among hockey fans. Zevon, who was a hockey fan himself, wrote the song as a tribute to the sport and to the players who make it so special.

17. “Gretzky Rocks” by The Pursuit of Happiness

“Gretzky Rocks” by The Pursuit of Happiness is a tribute to one of the greatest hockey players of all time, Wayne Gretzky. The song features catchy guitar riffs and a rock-driven beat that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of hockey. The lyrics describe Gretzky’s incredible talent and highlight his impact on the game of hockey. The song’s chorus, “Gretzky rocks, we all know that. Gretzky rocks, he’s the king of hockey, can’t you see that?” celebrates Gretzky’s success and cements his status as a legend in the sport. The upbeat and anthemic nature of the song makes it a great choice for pumping up fans before a big game or even during a hockey game intermission. Overall, “Gretzky Rocks” is a fun and energetic tribute to one of the greatest hockey players of all time, and a must-listen for any hockey fan.

18. “Small Towns and Big Dreams” by Paul Brandt

“Small Towns and Big Dreams” is a country song by Canadian singer Paul Brandt, which describes the passion and love for hockey in small towns. The song is an ode to the people in small towns who dream of making it big in the world of hockey, despite the odds against them. Brandt’s powerful voice and the upbeat tempo of the song captures the essence of a hockey game and the excitement it brings. The song talks about how hockey brings people together and how it’s more than just a game. The lyrics talk about the young kids who play hockey on frozen ponds and how it’s a way of life in small towns. Brandt’s tribute to hockey and its impact on small communities make this song a fan favorite among Canadian hockey enthusiasts. The country-infused sound mixed with the lyrics that embody the Canadian spirit make this song an instant classic.

19. “Kernkraft 400” by Zombie Nation

“Kernkraft 400” by Zombie Nation is an electronic dance track that has become an anthem in hockey arenas around the world. The song’s driving beat and catchy chorus make it the perfect song to pump up a crowd and get them energized for the game. The track’s title is German for “nuclear power 400”, and it is a reference to a Roland synthesizer preset used in the song. The original track was released in 1999 and quickly gained popularity in Europe before making its way to North America, where it became a staple at hockey games. The song has been remixed and sampled by many artists over the years and has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. With its high-energy beats and infectious melody, “Kernkraft 400” is a song that has helped to define the sound of hockey and has become an essential part of the game-day experience for fans around the world.

20. “Hockey Night” by David Vaters

“Hockey Night” by David Vaters is a heartfelt tribute to the excitement and energy of hockey night in Canada. With an upbeat melody, the song captures the joy and camaraderie of watching the game with friends and family. Vaters’ lyrics paint a vivid picture of the experience, from the sound of skates on the ice to the taste of popcorn and the thrill of the crowd. He captures the spirit of the game in lines like “the roar of the fans, the smell of the rink, the way the goalie looks when he blinks” and “we’re all in this together, cheering on our team, a little piece of heaven on Hockey Night it seems.” The song is both nostalgic and uplifting, reminding listeners of the power of sports to bring people together and create lasting memories. With its catchy chorus and infectious energy, “Hockey Night” is a must-listen for any hockey fan looking to celebrate the game they love.

Erica Henderson

Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.