In 1977, the Toronto Blue Jays were welcomed as the ninth expansion team in Major League Baseball but faced challenges initially. Seeking to boost their presence, Paul Beeston, the general manager at the time, enlisted songwriter Jack Lenz to create a theme song for the team, leading to the birth of “OK Blue Jays” in 1983.
The song gained popularity, especially during the Blue Jays’ World Series appearances in 1992 and 1993 after its release. Now, after 32 years, the team finds itself back in the World Series, stirring up nostalgic memories.
The creative minds behind “OK Blue Jays” included Jack Lenz as the songwriter, Tony Kosinec also as a songwriter, Keith Hampshire as the singer, Mike Francis on guitar, Barry Keane on drums, and Bernie Finkelstein, the founder of True North Records.
The genesis of the song stemmed from Beeston’s suggestion to keep expectations modest with the phrase “We’re OK,” which inspired the catchy chant. The upbeat and nostalgic feel of the song evokes the essence of a carefree summer day at a baseball game, resonating with fans.
The recording session at Toronto’s Eastern Studio brought together a talented ensemble, including renowned musicians like Mike Francis and Barry Keane, along with the notable jazz pianist Ralph Fraser. Their collaboration infused a sense of joy and camaraderie into the track.
“OK Blue Jays” experienced a resurgence in 1985 during the team’s playoff run, thanks to Bernie Finkelstein’s initiative. True North Records’ strategic move to promote the song coincided with the Jays’ success, amplifying its reach across Canada.
Despite the song’s success and its association with the Blue Jays’ triumphs, the creators reminisce about the modest royalties and the ebb and flow of its popularity based on the team’s performance. Nonetheless, “OK Blue Jays” remains a cherished anthem for fans, embodying the spirit of hometown pride and love for the game of baseball.