Blog | The Soundtrack Of My Life – Fire On Ice!!

Get Down with The Sickness

Blasting the speakers in an arena orange and blue, the unusual “ooh-wah-ah-ah-ah” staccato scream from Disturbed’s singer David Draiman sends shivers down all spectators’ spines. At the end of the intro flames shoot up announcing the entry of the home ice hockey team, Eindhoven Kemphanen, and the volumes is cranked up one more notch.

Their colors aligning the crowd cheers them onto the ice, intimidating their opponents. The blend of fire and flames, the orange-blue lit arena, and the crunching cords of Distubred’s concert staple ,,Down with the Sickness” brings the home-crowd to ecstatic heights.

THE ROOTS

Stepping back into the arena after nearly four decades, I find myself reliving my childhood years through my daughter’s newfound passion for ice hockey. In the mid-eighties, I was completely captivated by this team and the sport itself; mesmerized by the ice, the pungent scent of sweat, the electrifying rushes, crushing body checks, and raw speed.

While The Netherlands teams never quite matched the lightning-fast action of Scandinavian nations like Sweden and Finland, or the legendary hockey powerhouses of Eastern Europe and the NHL, this was where my love for the game truly took root. I savored every moment of the action, seemingly in slow motion, as my team dominated the league and clinched the National Championship.

THE DUTCH CHAMPIONSHIP

My hockey heroes were a mix of international and local legends: Canadians Michel Galarneau and Chris Simon, alongside Dutch stars like Theo van Gerwen, Risto Mollen, Berry Swinkels, goalie Stefan Ament, David Livingston, and Nico van Galen Last. Today, the team has dramatically risen from its past, with van Galen Last instrumental in reviving the national league in Eindhoven. As the team’s ‘operational director sports’ he draws international talents to the ring, with the staff constructing a team matching the needs of the Dutch league. It gels well, given the current strength in numbers.

The team as well as the arena’s home crowd mirrors the city’s international character. As Eindhoven has emerged as a leading European technology hub, the hockey team has attracted a diverse crowd of international expats, rekindling the passion that first drew me to the ice decades ago. Growing numbers mark the interest with the team performing at a high level in the Dutch championship.

“Looking at my own reflection
When suddenly it changes
Violently it changes (oh no)
There is no turning back now
You’ve woken up the demon in me”

DISTURBED

While the music of Disturbed never resonated with me before, nor did the entire genre, their track ,,Down with the Sickness” has become an unexpected anthem in my rekindled passion for hockey. Despite its dark lyrical content about the metaphoric abuse of generational conflicts while growing up not feeling a proper match to sport, the song’s gradual and pulsing heavy build creates a dramatic atmosphere perfect for game entrances.

As the arena lights dim and team colors wash over the crowd, tension mounts. The tribal drums and primal sounds with the narration pitched in the song’s intro, mirror the anticipation in the stands. Flags wave and drums beat as David Draiman’s iconic scream pierces the air, followed by his Ozzy-esque wailing vocal performance and the song’s signature guitar riff dropping.

The moment reaches its climax as the home team’s goalies lead the Kemphanen onto the ice. Flames erupt on both sides, creating a spectacular entrance that has become a highlight of every home game. As the players circle center ice and line up, Disturbed’s hook transitions into the chorus, igniting a roar from the crowd.

“Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Open up your hate, and let it flow into me
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
You mother get up come on get down with the sickness
You fucker get up come on get down with the sickness
Madness is the gift, that has been given to me”

THE LAST MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH

Lining up at the blue line the guests are welcomed in the “hostile” environment created. Overwhelmed it must strike fear in their hearts. Gathering around their goalies the teams huddle for the last motivational speech of their captain before the puck drops.

“I can see inside you, the sickness is rising
Don’t try to deny what you feel
(Will you give in to me?)
It seems that all that was good has died
And is decaying in me
(Will you give in to me?)”

Through the ages the sport has always been heated throughout its breaks. In the good ol’ days the Hammond organ fired up the crowd during short breaks and face-offs. The organ was used for what was called “psychological accompaniment” for events at the stadium, especially hockey matches. Mainly used for the team’s walk-on music, the organ was rousing the audiences with ‘charging’ music foreshadowing turns of events like powerplays or driving tension to raise the team’s attack mode, when they brought their first line to the ice, composed of the team’s best offensive players.

Getting the audience to anticipate ‘clappers’ were used for atmospheric conservation. These were the clapping and stomping hymns, like the ‘let’s go…’ theme in which every team since has stickered their own name. The mandatory one, which bears resemblance to Queen’s anthem ,,We will Rock You”.

HARD ROCK AND ICE HOCKEY

Let me tell you, as a die-hard rocker and hockey fanatic, the marriage of hard rock and hockey is a match made in headbanging heaven! When those classic organ tunes faded out and the thunderous riffs of rock and metal took over, it was like the whole arena got an adrenaline shot straight to the heart.

Picture this: You’re sitting in the stands, the tension’s building, and suddenly Queen’s ,,We Will Rock You” starts stomping through the speakers. It’s like every fan becomes part of this massive, pulsing organism, ready to explode. Then you’ve got Van Halen’s ,,Jump” with that iconic jabbing synth intro that makes you want to leap right onto the ice.

These ‘pump tunes’ aren’t just background noise; they have become the lifeblood of our game. AC/DC’s ,,Thunderstruck” hits you like a bone-crushing check with its reverbing riff, while Mötley Crüe’s ,,Kickstart My Heart” extended scorching chord is practically begging for a breakaway goal. And don’t even get me started on Journey’s ,,Don’t Stop Believin'” which is like the ultimate third-period comeback anthem.

But it’s not all just about getting pumped up. The way these songs are used can be downright clever. There’s nothing quite like hearing Ozzy’s ,,Crazy Train” blare as some goon gets sent to the sin bin. It’s these little touches that make a hockey game more than just a sport, it’s a full-on rock concert with a side of ice.

From Bon Jovi’s ,,Living on a Prayer” to Europe’s pumping intro of ,,The Final Countdown”, these anthems aren’t just songs; they’re time machines that transport us back to the glory days of rock and hockey. Every power chord is a slap shot, every drum beat a body check. It’s a playlist that could go on forever, and for us fans, that’s exactly what we want.

REBELLION AND FIGHTING SPIRIT

The spirit of hockey and rock music continues to intertwine, creating an electrifying atmosphere in arenas worldwide. Songs that embody rebellion and fighting spirit have become staples at games, with tracks like Survivor’s ,,Eye of the Tiger” and ,,Burning Heart” serving as benchmark anthems to ignite both the crowd and the team’s determination.

One standout example is Guns N’ Roses’ ,,Welcome to the Jungle”, whose massive opening chords and iconic riff send the Pittsburgh Penguins and their fans into a frenzy. This hard-hitting track has become synonymous with the team’s home games, perfectly capturing the intense energy of hockey.

The White Stripes’ ,,Seven Nation Army” has transcended its origins as an indie rock hit to become a ubiquitous sports anthem. Its instantly recognizable riff, often chanted by crowds as “Duhh Duh Da Da Da Duhhh Duhh Duhh,” creates goosebump-inducing moments of celebration in stadiums and arenas. This phenomenon began organically and has since spread to various sports and teams worldwide.

Similarly, Blur’s ,,Song 2″ with its catchy “Whoo-hoooo!” chorus has become another fan favorite for celebrating big moments during games. These songs, along with many others, have become an integral part of the hockey experience, bridging the gap between rock music and sports culture, and creating unforgettable memories for fans and players alike.

RIFF AND HOOK-DRIVEN ROCK ANTHEMS

From this era the numbers of examples rose as the charts were dominated by riff and hook-driven rock anthems airing on prime radio. Staples to the games during face-offs and penalty-calls, they became a binding connection between the genre and sport during the following two decades.

“Risin’ up, straight to the top
Had the guts, got the glory
Went the distance, now I’m not gonna stop
Just a man and his will to survive
It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight
Risin’ up to the challenge of our rival
And the last known survivor stalks his prey in the night
And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger”
(Eye of the Tiger – Survivor)

Building on the rock-solid foundation of classic anthems, the hockey playlist has evolved to include even bigger names and more diverse genres. U2 and Metallica now share the ice with timeless classics like the Rolling Stones’ ,,Paint it Black”, Ram Jam’s ,,Black Betty”, and Black Sabbath‘s iconic ,,Paranoid” riffs.

THE LESSER-KNOWN ACTS

However, the real excitement lies in the lesser-known acts gaining momentum through their tracks. Take ,,Wild in the Streets” by Canadian rockers Helix, for example. This sonic hockey brawl, with riffs sharper than a skate blade and drums that hit harder than a Gordie Howe hat trick, perfectly encapsulates the unbridled energy of both hard rock and hockey.

Even as a European fan, hearing Pennywise’s ,,Bro Hymn” during an NHL game in the middle of the night still sends shivers down my spine. This punk rock anthem has been the Anaheim Ducks’ goal song since 2005, becoming an integral part of their identity and even soundtracking their 2007 Stanley Cup victory.

As times change, so does the music. While rock tracks remain favorites, modern tunes have joined the lineup. Daft Punk’s ,,One More Time”, Republica’s ,,Ready to Go”, and more recent dance tracks like Junkie XL’s remix of Elvis’s ,,A Little Less Conversation” now share the speakers with guitar-driven classics. The Fratellis’ rouser ,,Chelsea Dagger” is a prime example of a modern track that immediately resonated in stadiums and arenas.

THE RISE OF VIDEOGAME CULTURE

This musical evolution reflects broader changes in society, including the rise of video game culture. The intersection of gaming and hockey music is evident in collaborations like the Canadian vinyl released with EA Sports in the early 2000s, featuring an array of lesser-known bands from the gameplay soundtrack. Despite these changes, the spirit of rock and hockey remains intertwined. Whether it’s a classic guitar riff or a pulsing electronic beat, the music continues to amplify the excitement and energy of the game, uniting fans in a shared experience that transcends generations and genres.

“Oh, ah, ah, ah, ah
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
Open up your hate, and let it flow into me
Get up, come on get down with the sickness
You mother get up come on get down with the sickness
You fucker get up come on get down with the sickness
Madness has now come over me”

CANADIAN SPIRIT

Contrasting all that melodic mayhem, nesting melodies and irresistible hooks, Anvil’s ,,Blood on the Ice” emerges as a quintessential metal tribute to hockey, perfectly capturing the sport’s raw intensity and Canadian spirit.

The track, released in 1988, symbolizes the profound connection between heavy metal and hockey culture, particularly in Canada. The song’s title alone evokes the visceral nature of hockey, while the thunderous guitar riffs, its scorching pierced licks and pounding drums mirror the sport’s fast-paced, hard-hitting action. Exaggerating the intensity Anvil leans overly on the game’s physical battles and the blood spilled on the shiny milky ice surface, encompassing the unyielding devotion, spirit and resilience of hockey players

Lips Kudlow’s vocals, known for their snarling power, lyrically drive home the connection between the aggressive tones of speed metal and the physicality of hockey. Phrased with intensity it aligns with the content scatting the thrill of the game. It’s a testament to Anvil’s ability to channel the energy of both. Interestingly, the song is more than just a musical piece. It’s a cultural artifact that reflects the Canadian hard rock and metal scene’s unique relationship with hockey. Canadian metal bands like Anvil often draw inspiration from their national identity, with hockey serving as a profound cultural touchstone.

The track stands as part of Anvil’s legacy, a band known for their uncompromising approach to traditional heavy metal. Like their other works, ,,Blood on the Ice” represents their commitment to authentic, hard-driving music that resonates with fans of both heavy metal and hockey.

Other metal songs connecting with the game are the thrash metal song ,,Frozen Hell” by Pansophic, which is based on personal hockey experiences. Pantera’s ,,Puck Off” was composed specifically for Dallas Stars’ goal celebrations and has become an integral part of the team’s identity, while Darkest Hour composed the Washington Capitals’ fight song ,,Unleash the Fury”.

“Slap shot sucker shot
Down on your knees
Skate to the face
You’re gouged and you bleed
Tussle and muscle
Flare like a rocket
Goon squad hired hit
A buck in the pocket

Blood on the ice
Blood on the ice”

NEIL PEART – FIRE ON ICE PROJECT

Stepping beyond, unique collaborations emerge, like the “Fire on Ice” project of my favorite drummer, the late Rush icon Neil Peart. Neil embraced his Canadian roots by collaborating with hockey in a unique way. In 2010, Peart re-arranged and recorded a percussion-based version of ,,The Hockey Theme”, composed originally in 1968 by Dolores Claman, recorded for TSN and RDS NHL-broadcasts. Using a specially created custom DW drum kit featuring logos of all 30 NHL teams Neil displayed his amazing skills as a drummer and performer, breathing life into the team. The drum riser matching colors and ‘feel’ with the playing field depicted on the angular placed front sides.

This project, dubbed “Fire on Ice,” showcased Peart’s deep love for hockey, despite not being a skilled player himself. Made available on iTunes with a portion of proceeds benefiting Hockey Fights Cancer and featured in the 2010 DVD “Fire on Ice: The Making of the Hockey Theme”, the song garnered attention and proceeds with the DVD adding volume also.

The custom hockey-themed drum kit was later displayed at various Rush concerts on their R40 tour where fans could have themselves photographed with Neil kit with all proceeds going to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. The iconic drumkit later found a home in the Hockey Hall of Fame upon Rush’ retirement and the drummer’s tragic passing.

Neil’s involvement with hockey however extended beyond this project, as he often played impromptu hockey games with bandmates and other musicians during their extended tours, demonstrating the deep connection between Canadian rock and the national pastime. The backstage area became a hockey ring, or his colleagues and stagehands where to be found at a nearby sports center.

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME

Peart fondly recalled watching hockey games in Quebec, noting that the entire experience; “… the game, the players, the fans, the announcers, the commercials, the weather”, to him felt like “… an intravenous shot of Canadiana”. A powerful statement reflecting his passion for the game and his roots.

Neil Peart’s statement about holding the Stanley Cup, “Take that, bullies from fifty years ago!”, reveals a poignant moment of personal triumph for the celebrated musician. This declaration carries significant weight, considering Peart’s journey from a self-described “skinny, weak, non-athletic” child, and a “twiggy little thing” whose ankles would fold over when he put on skates, to becoming one of the most revered drummers in rock history.

The image of Peart, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, holding hockey’s most coveted trophy while preparing to record “Canada’s second national anthem” is deeply symbolic. It represents not just a personal victory, but a cultural crossover between two quintessentially Canadian institutions: hockey and Rush. This moment allowed Peart to reconcile his childhood struggles with his adult success, using his musical prowess to connect with a sport that once left him feeling inadequate.

Neil’s urge to lash out at childhood tormentors, even after achieving global fame, demonstrates the lasting impact of early experiences and the relevance of the game to a spectator. It highlights how even the most successful individuals can carry remnants of past insecurities. It highlights how hockey impacts on life and how the celebration of the sport is deeply resonating with fans.

AN UNBREAKABLE BOND

As the soundtrack of hockey continues to evolve, it’s clear that the sport and music have formed an unbreakable bond. Disturbed’s ,,Down with the Sickness” has become a powerful addition to the hockey playlist and unwillingly my personal ‘Soundtrack of Life’, igniting the spirit of fans and players alike with its intense energy and driving rhythm.

The magic of hockey extends far beyond the NHL arenas. From the passionate crowds in Germany’s DEL to the dedicated fans in Scandinavian leagues, and even in the grassroots rinks of countries like The Netherlands, Belgium, France, and the UK, the sport continues to thrive. What unites these diverse hockey cultures isn’t just the love of the game, but also the shared experience of music that pumps through the speakers and into our hearts.

There’s simply no substitute for the electric atmosphere of a live hockey game. The thunderous cheers, the clash of sticks, and the pulse-pounding music all combine to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re witnessing the spectacle of a Vegas Golden Knights pre-game show, joining in a time-honored chant at Madison Square Garden, or the relentless chants omitted from the infamous yellow and black stands of Germany’s Krefelder Pinguine’s Ultras, each arena offers its own unique flavor of hockey culture.

So, to all hockey fans out there: don’t just watch the game on TV. Get out there and be part of the action. Feel the chill of the arena air, hear the roar of the crowd, and let the music wash over you. From Stompin’ Tom Connors’ classic ,,The Hockey Song” to the latest rock anthems, the soundtrack of hockey continues to evolve and unite fans across the globe. In the end, it’s not just about the sport or the music; it’s about the community, the passion, and the shared experiences that make hockey truly special.

See you there!

Header and all other ice hockey photos by: Roel Louwers / ISOsports Photography.