Die-hard Chicagoans bleed blue, and their love for the Cubs runs deeper than a hot dog with no ketchup or a Chicago-style deep dish. But what fuels the Cub faithful after a Wrigley win? None other than the legendary “Go Cubs Go!” anthem.
The “Go Cubs Go” melody has become synonymous with Chicago Cubs fandom, echoing through the streets of Wrigleyville and the entire Windy City after every Cubs victory.
Who’s the musician behind this infectious tune? Let’s step up to the plate and meet Steve Goodman, the bard who gave voice to Cubs fans everywhere.
The Bard of Wrigleyville
Goodman wasn’t just some musician; he was a Cubs devotee practically born under the ivy at Wrigley. It was only natural he’d combine his two passions: music and baseball.
The story goes that “Go Cubs Go” was a late-70s masterpiece inspired by a resurgent Cubs team and the ever-faithful fans. With its catchy chorus and spirit-lifting lyrics, the song became a battle cry for Cubs believers.
Goodman’s path to musical fame wasn’t a walk-off homer. Despite his talent, mainstream success was elusive. Enter John Prine, a fellow musician, and Cubs compatriot. Prine helped Goodman snag a record deal, launching him into the spotlight and paving the way for “Go Cubs Go” to hit the airwaves.
But Goodman was more than a one-hit wonder. His musical repertoire included the poignant “City of New Orleans” to the foot-stomping “You Never Even Call Me by My Name.” Arlo Guthrie’s cover of “City of New Orleans” was a bonafide hit. Goodman’s wit and keen observations resonated with fans everywhere.
See Mike Veeck on His Dad, Bill Veeck.
The Genesis of “Go Cubs Go”
Legend has it that Goodman penned “Go Cubs Go” in the late 1970s when the Cubs were experiencing a resurgence. Inspired by the team’s electrifying performances on the field and the unwavering support of Cubs faithful, Goodman crafted a tune that captured the essence of Cubs fandom. With its catchy chorus and uplifting lyrics, “Go Cubs Go” quickly became an anthem for fans to rally behind.
As the Cubs continued to captivate fans with their on-field heroics, “Go Cubs Go” became an anthem for celebration. Whether it was a walk-off home run or a nail-biting extra-inning victory, Cubs fans would pour out of Wrigley Field chanting the familiar refrain, “Go Cubs Go, Go Cubs Go, Hey Chicago, what do you say? Cubs are gonna win today!”
The song’s infectious energy and undeniable charm transcended the confines of the baseball diamond, becoming a rallying cry for Cubs fans everywhere. It wasn’t long before “Go Cubs Go” became a staple at Cubs games, blaring through the speakers as fans reveled in each hard-fought victory.
A Legacy That Endures
Tragically, Steve Goodman’s life was cut short when he succumbed to leukemia in 1984 at the age of 36. However, his musical legacy lives on, immortalized in the timeless anthem that continues to unite Cubs fans of all generations.
Every time “Go Cubs Go” reverberates through the streets of Chicago, Goodman’s spirit is felt among the faithful, reminding us of the enduring power of music and sports to unite people.
The Cubs Other Musical Tradition
Legendary broadcaster Harry Caray started the Cubs’ tradition of singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh-inning stretch at home games. Over the years, famous singers, celebrities, and other notables have been asked to lead the singing at the ballpark.
See Take Me Out to The Ball Game History.
Go Cubs Go Lyrics
“Go Cubs Go” By Steve Goodman
Baseball season’s underway
Well, you better get ready for a brand-new day
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
They’re singing
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
They got the power, they got the speed
To be the best in the National League
Well, this is the year, and the Cubs are real
So come on down to Wrigley Field
We’re singing now
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today.
Baseball time is here again
You can catch it all on WGN
So stamp your feet and clap your hands
Chicago Cubs got the greatest fans
Hear ’em singing now
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago
A Song for the Ages
In the history of sports anthems, “Go Cubs Go” stands tall as a testament to the unbreakable bond between a city, its team, and the music that binds them together. Steve Goodman may have left us too soon, but his gift to Cubs fans will echo through the ages, a reminder of the joy, hope, and camaraderie that defines the essence of fandom.
So, the next time you find yourself belting out the chorus of “Go Cubs Go,” take a moment to salute the man behind the music and the team that inspired it all. After all, as every Cubs fan knows, it’s a beautiful day for a ballgame—let’s play two!
By Mike O’Halloran
Founder and Editor, Sports Feel Good Stories
Extra Innings
You are on our Steve Goodman: The Musician Behind “Go Cubs Go” page.
You might enjoy the following:
