WATCH: Newcastle release new Blaydon Races anthem set for St James’ Park debut on Saturday

Newcastle United have released a new recording of the iconic ‘Blaydon Races’, with the refreshed anthem set to make its St James’ Park debut ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

The club have worked alongside local musicians and supporters to create a version that celebrates Newcastle’s heritage while bringing a fresh sound to one of the most recognisable songs in the North East.

Newcastle release new version of Blaydon Races anthem

The new recording has been produced in partnership with Generator and Interval Records, featuring vocals from North Shields band Hector Gannet.

The track also includes the organ of St Nicholas Cathedral and Northumbrian piper Chris Ormston, bringing the song back towards its traditional folk roots.

Watch the official music video below, which has received mixed reviews as some supporters believe it to be too slow. 

Newcastle supporters played an important role in shaping the release, with representatives from several fan groups involved in workshops and listening sessions. Their feedback helped influence the tempo, singalong feel and overall sound inside St James’ Park, while preserving the anthem’s history, although the slow pace of the new release appears to be its biggest drawback based on early feedback. 

The club have released three versions: a Stadium Track, a Radio Edit and an Extended Version featuring all the original verses.

An accompanying music video celebrates everyday life across the North East, capturing the people, places and sense of belonging that make the song such an important part of the region’s identity.

The new recording will be played at St James’ Park for the first time ahead of Saturday’s 5.30pm kick-off against Aston Villa, with Hector Gannet also set to perform before the match.

What are your thoughts? Do you like it? Can you see it being sung as a pre-match anthem at home games?