The Ultimate Guide to Sunderland AFC Chants and Songs

If you’ve ever stood in the stands at the Stadium of Light or followed the lads away, you’ll know that the roar of the crowd is about more than just noise. It’s a language all of its own, full of history, passion, and inside jokes. This glossary is your matchday programme for understanding the anthems, chants, and songs that form the soundtrack to supporting Sunderland AFC. From the classics that echo through generations to the new tunes catching on, here’s your guide to singing your heart out.

"Ha'way the Lads"

The universal battle cry of Sunderland supporters. It’s a Geordie dialect version of "Come on the Lads" and is used as a greeting, a rallying call during matches, and a general expression of Black Cats pride. You’ll hear it shouted, chanted, and sung everywhere from the stadium concourse to the pub.

"The Sunderland Anthem (Sunderland 'Til I Die)"

The modern, definitive club anthem. Adapted from the 1990s song by band The Beautiful South, its chorus, "Sunderland ‘til I die, I know I am, I’m sure I am, I’m Sunderland ‘til I die," is sung with fervour before kick-off and during moments of defiance. It perfectly encapsulates the lifelong, unwavering commitment of the fanbase.

"Daylight Upon The Magic"

A traditional folk song adopted by the support. The full version, celebrating the town's shipbuilding heritage and resilience, is often sung a cappella by fans on big occasions. Its poignant melody and lyrics about "the magic of the shipyards" connect the club directly to Sunderland’s industrial soul.

"Can’t Help Falling in Love"

A more recent, passionate adaptation sung to the tune of the Elvis Presley classic. The slowed-down, heartfelt chant of "Wise men say, only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you" is directed at the club itself, expressing a love that is often tested but never broken.

"Red and White Army"

The simplest and most rhythmic chant. A repetitive, clap-along staple that builds atmosphere, especially during sustained pressure on the pitch. It’s easy for everyone to join in and sends a clear, unifying message of support from the stands.

"We Are The Rokerites"

A historic chant that links the present to the club’s 99-year home at Roker Park. Sung to the tune of "Lord of the Dance," it’s a proud declaration of identity: "We are the Rokerites, we are the red and whites." It keeps the spirit of the old ground alive at the Stadium of Light.

"Cheer Up..."

A famously mocking chant aimed at Newcastle United. The classic version goes, "Cheer up, [Manager's Name], oh what can it be? To a club like Sunderland, you’ll never be!" It’s deployed with particular gusto during derby matches to get under the skin of their rivals.

"The Blaydon Races (Sunderland Version)"

A direct and territorial takeover of Newcastle’s own anthem. Sunderland fans sing their own version with altered lyrics to claim bragging rights, a classic example of football’s musical rivalry. It’s a defiant way of staking a claim in the Tyne-Wear rivalry.

"Jingle Bells (O’Neill Version)"

A festive-themed chant celebrating former manager Martin O’Neill. The lyrics, "O’Neill, O’Neill, O’Neill, O’Neill, Martin O’Neill, I just don’t think you understand!" to the tune of Jingle Bells, became a popular show of support during his tenure, showing how quickly a catchy tune can catch on.

"Super Kevin Phillips"

A chant dedicated to the club’s legendary striker and record Premier League goalscorer. Sung to the tune of "Robin Hood," it celebrates his goal-scoring heroics: "Super, super Kev, super Kevin Phillips!" It’s a lasting tribute to a true Sunderland icon.

"The Niall Quinn Disco Pants Song"

A uniquely surreal and beloved chant for former striker, chairman, and saviour Niall Quinn. To the tune of "Molly Malone," it humorously recounts Quinn wearing his "disco pants" to save the club. It’s a testament to the fans’ affection for his pivotal role in the club’s history.

"We Love You Sunderland"

A straightforward, emotional chant sung to the tune of The Beatles' "She Loves You." The repeated "We love you Sunderland, we do!" is often heard during moments of high passion or celebration, a simple and direct expression of love for the club.

"Who’s That Team They Call The Lads?"

A call-and-response chant that builds anticipation. A leader will shout "Who’s that team they call the Lads?" and the crowd roars back "SUNDERLAND!" It’s a powerful, unifying chant that gets the whole stand involved.

"The Drum"

While not a song, the relentless bass drum beaten in the South Stand is the heartbeat of the Stadium of Light’s atmosphere. It sets the rhythm for chants, drives the team forward, and is a constant, thumping presence on matchday.

"Keep The Red Flag Flying High"

A socialist-inspired workers' song adopted by many clubs with red as their colour. Sunderland fans sing it as a badge of honour, linking the club’s identity to the city’s working-class roots and communal spirit.

"You’re Not Singing Anymore"

The classic, gloating chant aimed at silenced away fans. After Sunderland scores or when the opposition's support goes quiet, the home fans will taunt them with this chant. It’s the sound of claiming momentary supremacy in the stands.

"One For The Lads"

A celebratory drinking chant often heard on away days or in pubs. It’s a raucous, communal song that bonds fans together off the pitch, celebrating the shared experience of following the team.

"The Play-Off Final Chorus"

Refers to the incredible wall of noise created by the Sunderland support at Wembley, particularly during the 2022 League One play-off final. It has become shorthand for the immense, unwavering volume the fanbase can generate on the biggest stages.

"The Roker Roar"

The legendary term for the intimidating, deafening noise generated by fans at the old Roker Park. It was said to be a tangible force that could inspire the team and frighten opponents. The spirit of the "Roker Roar" is something today’s fans strive to recreate.

"The Haway/Howay Divide"

An internal, light-hearted debate among fans about the correct spelling and pronunciation of the iconic phrase. Is it "Ha’way" (the more traditional Sunderland spelling) or "Howay"? It’s a fun piece of fan culture trivia that sparks conversation.

"The Poznań"

The act of fans turning their backs to the pitch, linking arms, and jumping up and down. Adopted by many clubs, Sunderland fans have been known to perform it during particularly dominant performances, creating a spectacular visual in the stands.

"The Great Escape (Theme)"

On rare, great days, you might hear the iconic theme from The Great Escape whistled around the stadium. It’s typically reserved for moments where the team has pulled off a miraculous survival or a last-minute, against-the-odds victory.

"The Academy Lads"

A term of endearment in chants for players who have come through the club’s esteemed Academy Direction. Songs for local heroes like Jordan Henderson in the past celebrate the pride in homegrown talent, a core part of the club’s identity.

"The Scholar Salute"

A specific chant or round of applause dedicated to players from the Scholar Analysis Team (the youth setup). It acknowledges the hard work of the next generation and the fans' connection to the club’s future.

"Wise Men Say Fanzine"

While not a chant, this legendary independent fanzine has shaped fan culture and protest songs for decades. Its name is taken from the "Can’t Help Falling in Love" chant, and its content has often given voice to the stands, influencing the mood and messages within the crowd.

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These chants are more than just words and tunes; they’re the living, breathing history of Sunderland AFC. They tell stories of triumph, heartbreak, heroes, and humour. Learning them is your ticket to becoming part of the chorus that has supported the team for over a century. So next time you’re in the stands, don’t just listen—sing up. You’re adding your voice to a story that’s forever Sunderland ‘til I die. For more on what makes this club tick, explore our Sunderland AFC Complete Guide.

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