Alright, Oilers fans, let’s talk about the real soundtrack of a season. Beyond the stats and the scores, the heart of Edmonton Oilers hockey beats in the chants, songs, and unique lingo that echo through Rogers Place and across Oil Country. Whether you’re a lifelong member of the faithful or a new fan catching the buzz around Connor McDavid, knowing the lexicon is key to feeling the full energy of the game. This guide will break down the essential terms, from the classic anthems to the new rallying cries, so you can shout, sing, and celebrate like a true insider.
"Let's Go Oilers!"
The foundational, rhythmic chant of every home game. Typically a three-beat "Let's Go Oil-ers!" clap-clap-clapclapclap, it’s the universal pulse-check of fan energy. You’ll hear it organically erupt during play stoppages, TV timeouts, or anytime the crowd needs to will the team forward.
"Go Oilers Go!"
Often used interchangeably with "Let's Go Oilers!", this is the simpler, driving chant. It’s a straightforward declaration of support, perfect for building momentum during a crucial Power Play or to celebrate a big save from Stuart Skinner.
"M-V-P! M-V-P!"
A chant reserved for moments of sheer individual brilliance, most commonly directed at Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl after a breathtaking goal or shift. It’s a direct acknowledgment of their Hart Memorial Trophy pedigree and a way for fans to show they recognize greatness in real-time.
The "Drai" Siren
A newer tradition for the German superstar. After a goal or primary assist by Leon Draisaitl, the arena DJ often plays a siren sound effect, prompting the crowd to shout "Drai!" in unison. It’s a quick, powerful tribute to one of the most dangerous offensive players in the NHL.
"Skinner! Skinner!"
A chant of affirmation and support for the homegrown goaltender. After a sequence of big stops or a period-stealing performance, fans will loudly chant his name to show their appreciation and boost the confidence of the last line of defense.
"True North"
The opening two words of the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada." In a powerful display of patriotism, the entire crowd at Rogers Place belts out "TRUE NORTH!" with extra volume and passion before the anthem singer continues. It’s a iconic moment that gives chills every single game.
"Hey, Hey, Hey, Goodbye!"
The ultimate taunt song. Sung to the tune of "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," Oilers fans launch into this classic when a victory is all but secured in the final minutes. It’s a playful, celebratory send-off to the visiting team and their fans.
"You're Not Getting Paid!"
A humorous and pointed chant directed at opposing players who take a blatant, dramatic dive in an attempt to draw a penalty. It’s the crowd’s way of calling out embellishment and showing they aren’t fooled.
"Silver and Blue"
A term for the team's iconic colors, often used in fan-created songs and chants. It symbolizes the collective identity of Oil Country and is a point of pride, representing the history and future of the franchise.
"Oilers Goal Song"
The current and iconic goal celebration soundtrack at Rogers Place is "Takin' Care of Business" by Bachman-Turner Overdrive. The opening guitar riff triggers an immediate eruption, with the entire arena singing and clapping along. It’s pure, unadulterated joy.
"The Playoff Beard"
A superstitious tradition common across the NHL, but deeply felt in Edmonton. Fans (and players) often stop shaving during a Stanley Cup Playoffs run, believing that growing a beard contributes to team luck and unity. It’s a visible sign of commitment to the grind of the postseason.
"Dynasty Days"
A reference to the legendary 1980s era when the Edmonton Oilers, led by Wayne Gretzky, won five Stanley Cups. Chants or songs referencing this era connect the current team's quest to the glorious past, reminding everyone of the standard in Edmonton.
"Battle of Alberta"
The term for the fierce rivalry with the Calgary Flames. Chants during these games are notably more intense and hostile. Specific anti-Flames taunts and songs emerge, fueled by decades of provincial bragging rights and playoff history.
"We Want the Cup!"
The simplest, most direct, and most emotional chant. Heard most often during a deep Stanley Cup run, it’s a raw expression of collective hope and demand from a fanbase starving to see championship glory return to Edmonton.
"Power Kill"
A fan term for an exceptionally aggressive and dangerous shorthanded unit. When the Oilers penalty killers, perhaps led by a player like Connor Brown, are creating more offensive chances than the opposing man advantage, the crowd buzzes with the potential for a "power kill" goal.
"97"
Shouted or seen on countless jerseys, this number is synonymous with Connor McDavid. Chants of "Nine-ty Sev-en!" celebrate his speed and skill. It’s more than a number; it’s a symbol of a generational talent leading the franchise.
"Knightfall" (The Vegas Anthem)
While not an Oilers song, it’s a crucial part of recent playoff lore. The ominous theme music played by the Vegas Golden Knights has become a trigger for Oilers fans to boo with incredible vitriol, symbolizing the intense rivalry that has developed in the Western Conference.
"First Round Exit"
A painful taunt historically used by opposing fans during less successful seasons. For Oilers fans, the drive to exorcise this phrase from the lexicon has fueled support for the team's recent, deeper postseason pushes under Kris Knoblauch.
"The Curse of 2006"
A reference to the long drought since the Oilers' last Stanley Cup Final appearance. Chants about "breaking the curse" or ending the drought are common during playoff runs, representing the fanbase's longing to overcome past near-misses.
"Oil Country"
The self-proclaimed name for the global community of Oilers fans. It’s used in chants, songs, and social media to represent unity. Whether you’re in the arena or watching from afar, if you bleed blue and orange, you’re in Oil Country.
"Drai and McJesus"
A fan nickname for the lethal duo of Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. It’s often used in excited commentary or chants when the two superstars connect for a highlight-reel goal, combining Draisaitl’s nickname with McDavid’s popular "McJesus" moniker.
"Art Ross Race"
A season-long narrative followed closely by fans. Chants related to this emerge when Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl is neck-and-neck for the league scoring title, adding a thrilling individual storyline to the team's campaign.
"The New Core"
A term acknowledging the current group of stars and leaders beyond the obvious two. It shows fan appreciation for the supporting cast crucial for a Stanley Cup contender, from the defense to the secondary scoring.
"Lucky Jersey"
Refers to any piece of team apparel a fan wears superstitiously during a winning streak. Discussions about "retiring" or "washing the lucky jersey" are a common and fun part of playoff fan culture.
This lexicon is more than just words and songs; it’s the living, breathing dialogue between a team and its city. From the booming "TRUE NORTH" to the hopeful "We Want the Cup," each chant is a thread in the fabric of Oilers history. As the team chases glory, these are the sounds that will define the journey. So learn them, live them, and add your voice to the chorus. Dive deeper into what makes this fanbase special in our hub on Oilers culture and community, and for more on the families that shape this team, explore the legacy of players like Darnell Nurse.
Reader Comments (0)