When the Saints Go Marching In
The thunderous jazz anthem that turns the Superdome into a fortress of faith and football.
"When the Saints Go Marching In" is far more than a traditional New Orleans jazz standard; it is the spiritual anthem and unofficial fight song of the New Orleans Saints. Adopted by the franchise after its founding in 1967, the song serves as an immediate auditory signal of home-field advantage at Caesars Superdome (formerly the Louisiana Superdome). It unites the team with the city's deep musical heritage, transforming a stadium full of fans into a single, deafening voice that has become legendary throughout the NFL.
- Adopted Era
- 1967 (Franchise Founding)
- Primary Venue
- Caesars Superdome
- Musical Genre
- New Orleans Jazz / Ragtime
- Cultural Status
- Unofficial Team Anthem
- Key Association
- Homecoming and Victory Celebrations
- Origin City
- New Orleans, Louisiana
Lore & Background
The song's role evolved significantly during the franchise's darkest and brightest moments. During the "Who Dat" era of the late 1980s and early 1990s, fans began chanting "Who dat? Who dat say gonna beat da Saints?" immediately following the chorus, creating a call-and-response tradition that is now iconic. This tradition reached its zenith in Super Bowl XLIV in 2010; after the Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts to win their first championship, the band played the anthem as players celebrated on the field, cementing its status not just as a pre-game ritual, but as the soundtrack of ultimate triumph.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Superdome is thick with humidity and anticipation. The scoreboard flickers off, plunging the stadium into a momentary darkness before the house lights dim completely. Then, a single trumpet pierces the silence, followed by the swelling horn section. The ground vibrates under the stomping of feet and the rhythmic clapping of hands. It is a wall of sound that travels down the tunnel to the locker room, a sonic embrace telling every player on the roster: this is New Orleans, and we are with you.
Reader's Guide
For Saints fans, singing "When the Saints" is a non-negotiable ritual that transcends the game itself. It begins during the pre-game warm-ups but reaches its fever pitch after every home victory or significant play. The tradition requires active participation; it is not a song to be listened to, but one to be shouted. The unique "Who Dat" chant serves as the bridge between verses, allowing fans to express their collective confidence and history. This call-and-response format creates a sense of community that binds generations together, from grandparents who watched the early struggles to children celebrating modern dynasties. It is a declaration of resilience. Beyond the stadium, this anthem is played at tailgates, parades, and even in moments of city-wide unity during times of crisis. The song has become a symbol of New Orleans' indomitable spirit, proving that while fortunes may change on the gridiron, the culture remains eternal.
Did You Know?
- The "Who Dat" chant associated with the song originated from fans at Tulane University, not the Saints organization itself.
- The anthem is played immediately following the team's victory in Super Bowl XLIV, marking their first championship ring.
- It is one of the few songs in professional sports that predates the franchise it represents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is 'When the Saints Go Marching In'?
It is not a person but a traditional New Orleans jazz standard that serves as the unofficial fight song and spiritual anthem for the New Orleans Saints. Adopted immediately upon the franchise's founding in 1967, it acts as an auditory symbol of the team's identity.
What role does 'When the Saints Go Marching In' play at games?
The song functions as a powerful unifying force that transforms Caesars Superdome into a deafening fortress of home-field advantage. It connects the team to the city’s deep musical heritage, rallying fans into a single voice during key moments.
When did 'When the Saints Go Marching In' become associated with the Saints?
The anthem was adopted by the franchise in 1967, coinciding directly with the team's founding. Since that era, it has remained a constant presence at every home game and victory celebration.
Why is 'When the Saints Go Marching In' culturally important to New Orleans?
This ragtime tune bridges the gap between professional football and the city’s rich jazz history, creating a legendary atmosphere unique in the NFL. It represents more than just entertainment; it is a shared expression of faith, community, and resilience.
Where is 'When the Saints Go Marching In' performed?
The song is primarily played at Caesars Superdome (formerly the Louisiana Superdome) to energize the crowd before kickoffs and after touchdowns. Its thunderous sound echoes throughout this specific venue, cementing its status as a local tradition.