In 1977, the Toronto Blue Jays entered Major League Baseball as the ninth expansion team. Despite early struggles, the team sought to boost its image in 1982. General manager Paul Beeston enlisted songwriter Jack Lenz to create a theme song, resulting in the iconic “OK Blue Jays” released in 1983.
The song gained popularity during the Blue Jays’ World Series appearances in 1992 and 1993. Fast forward to the present day, the team has made it to the World Series after 32 years. The creative minds behind “OK Blue Jays” recall how the catchy anthem came to life.
The talented lineup included songwriter Jack Lenz, Tony Kosinec, singer Keith Hampshire, guitarist Mike Francis, and drummer Barry Keane. Bernie Finkelstein, the founder of True North Records, played a key role in the song’s success.
The upbeat and nostalgic song, with its catchy chant and ’80s vibe, captured the essence of a baseball game on a summer afternoon. The recording session at Toronto’s Eastern Studio featured notable musicians, including jazz pianist Ralph Fraser.
The song’s resurgence in popularity coincided with the Blue Jays’ playoff runs in 1985, 1992, and 1993. Bernie Finkelstein’s enthusiasm and strategic efforts helped propel the song into the spotlight during the team’s successful seasons.
Despite the song’s success, the creators reflected on the modest financial returns, attributing the song’s charm to its innocence and appeal to home team pride. As the Blue Jays return to the World Series, the enduring legacy of “OK Blue Jays” stands as a testament to the bond between music, sports, and fans.