The Toronto Blue Jays officially joined Major League Baseball as the ninth expansion team in 1977. However, the team struggled initially. In 1982, Paul Beeston, the Jays’ general manager, sought to boost the team’s image and decided they needed a theme song. Beeston enlisted songwriter Jack Lenz, who later composed “OK Blue Jays.”
Released in 1983, the song gained popularity during the Blue Jays’ World Series appearances in 1992 and 1993, marking the team’s return to the World Series after 32 years. The article delves into the creative process behind “OK Blue Jays” involving songwriters, singers, and musicians.
The songwriters, Lenz and Kosinec, collaborated with a band at Toronto’s Eastern Studio to record the track. Noteworthy contributors included Mike Francis on guitar, Barry Keane on drums, and Ralph Fraser, renowned for his work as the Maple Leafs’ organist. The upbeat and nostalgic feel of the song captured the essence of a carefree baseball experience.
Bernie Finkelstein, founder of True North Records, played a pivotal role in reviving the song’s popularity during the Blue Jays’ playoff runs in 1985, 1992, and 1993. The success of “OK Blue Jays” resonated with fans and became a cherished anthem for the team.
Despite its enduring appeal, the creators of “OK Blue Jays” reminisce about the humble origins of the song and its impact on both the music industry and baseball culture. The article sheds light on the camaraderie and passion that went into crafting a beloved sports anthem that continues to evoke nostalgia among fans.
The oral history of “OK Blue Jays” provides insights into the collaborative effort that spawned a timeless rallying cry for Blue Jays fans, highlighting the song’s enduring legacy and its unique place in Canadian sports and music history.