Goal songs are such a historic part of hockey history, but which are the best of the best from each of the 31 NHL teams?
There’s nothing better than going to a hockey game and hearing your favorite team’s song after a goal is scored. Of course, that is, if your team’s goal song isn’t bad, but for the most part goal songs across the NHL are quite good as a whole.
Some are better than others, and some have stayed iconic for some time. Some are new, but are already making an impression on their fans, for good or bad. Though goal songs in hockey are more of a last 30 years phenomenon, the concept remains one of the most important parts of hockey culture.
Much like I did last week in taking a look at one jersey from each team — minus Vegas — that should be brought back, this week I’m diving into the world of goal songs. Many teams have used the same goal song over the years, but there are no duplicates in this list as there were enough unique songs to be put into a list.
Also, major shoutout to the YouTube channel Astro Goal Horns for their goal horn history videos that made it possible to compile this list without going bananas trying to find a list of songs online.
That being said, here is the best goal song from each of the 31 NHL teams.
Anaheim Ducks: That’s The Way (I Like It) by KC & The Sunshine Band
The Ducks’ first goal song does not feel like it should fit in a hockey arena after a goal, but I kinda love it. Maybe it’s just because I’m a sucker for an old-timey song, but also because their current goal song will show up later in this list.
Arizona Coyotes: Werewolves Of London by Warren Zevon
Great pun. Great singalong portion. An inspired choice.
Boston Bruins: Zombie Nation by Kernkraft 400
Of course, Zombie Nation is synonymous with the Bruins now since it became the goal song in 2002. I would like to take this time to talk about Nut Rocker, the team’s original tune, because it’s just the Nutcracker suite but as a rock song.
Buffalo Sabres: Let Me Clear My Throat by DJ Kool
The Sabres really stuck the landing with this song, honestly. It’s so hype, and ending it with the lyric “somebody make some noise in this join, man” is great. Props to Buffalo here for absolutely nailing what a good goal song is: catchy, fun and fan-fueled.
Calgary Flames: Righteous Smoke by Monster Truck
The pair of AC/DC songs the Flames have used over the years (Shot Down In Flames and T.N.T.) are great. Don’t get me wrong here. However, I like the feel of Righteous Smoke better. It’s got great riffs and easy to sing along to as well. Plus, it’s a more off the board pick than AC/DC.