Who Wrote Fly Eagles Fly and What’s the Story Behind the Anthem?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Eagle, Raptors & Birds of Prey

When it comes to iconic sports anthems, few chants resonate as powerfully as “Fly Eagles Fly.” This spirited fight song has become synonymous with the Philadelphia Eagles, rallying fans and players alike through decades of memorable moments on the gridiron. But beyond its catchy melody and electrifying chorus lies a fascinating story about its origins and the creative minds behind its enduring legacy.

Understanding who wrote “Fly Eagles Fly” opens a window into the rich history of the Philadelphia Eagles and the cultural significance of team anthems in sports. These songs do more than just energize crowds—they embody the spirit, pride, and unity of a team and its supporters. Exploring the background of this anthem reveals how it has evolved over time to become a staple at Eagles games and a symbol of Philadelphia’s passionate fanbase.

As we delve into the origins of “Fly Eagles Fly,” we’ll uncover the individuals responsible for crafting this memorable tune and examine how it has been embraced and transformed by generations of fans. Whether you’re a die-hard Eagles supporter or simply intrigued by sports traditions, the story behind this fight song offers a compelling glimpse into the power of music in rallying a community.

Background and Composition of “Fly Eagles Fly”

“Fly Eagles Fly” serves as the official fight song of the Philadelphia Eagles, an NFL team with a passionate fan base and rich history. The song energizes fans and players alike during games, symbolizing team pride and unity. The lyrics and composition were crafted specifically to capture the spirit and competitive nature of the Eagles.

The primary writer of “Fly Eagles Fly” is Charles Borrelli, who, along with Roger Courtland, co-wrote the song in the 1950s. The duo aimed to create a catchy and memorable anthem that could be easily sung by fans in the stands. Their collaboration resulted in a tune that has endured for decades, becoming synonymous with Philadelphia Eagles football.

Lyrics and Musical Structure

The lyrics of “Fly Eagles Fly” are straightforward and repetitive, designed to be easily learned and chanted. The key lyrical phrase, “Fly Eagles Fly,” is repeated multiple times to reinforce team spirit and create a rhythmic chant. The song also incorporates the phrase “Fight, Eagles Fight,” emphasizing the team’s fighting spirit.

Musically, the song is upbeat and march-like, which suits its purpose as a fight song played during games. It typically features brass instruments, drums, and a strong, steady beat to encourage clapping and cheering from the crowd.

Key elements of the song include:

  • Repetitive chorus to engage fans
  • Simple melody for easy memorization
  • Energetic tempo to boost morale

Notable Versions and Usage

Over the years, “Fly Eagles Fly” has been adapted and recorded in various forms. The Philadelphia Eagles organization officially endorses a version used during home games at Lincoln Financial Field. This version often includes crowd participation elements, such as clapping and call-and-response singing.

In addition to live game use, the fight song has been featured in promotional materials, team broadcasts, and fan events. Various artists and fan groups have also created covers and remixes, contributing to the song’s cultural presence.

Below is a table summarizing notable versions and their contexts:

Version Context Features
Original (1955) Initial composition and early games Simple arrangement, original lyrics by Borrelli and Courtland
Official Stadium Version Played during home games Enhanced instrumentation, crowd participation cues
Fan Covers Online and fan events Varied musical styles, remixes, and personalized renditions

Impact and Legacy

The fight song has become an integral part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ identity. It fosters a sense of camaraderie among fans and serves as a rallying cry during critical moments in games. Its longevity and continued relevance are testaments to the effectiveness of Borrelli and Courtland’s songwriting.

The song also exemplifies the broader tradition of fight songs in American sports culture, where music plays a crucial role in team branding and fan engagement. “Fly Eagles Fly” remains one of the most recognizable and beloved fight songs in the National Football League.

Authorship of “Fly Eagles Fly”

“Fly Eagles Fly” is the fight song of the Philadelphia Eagles, a professional American football team. The song is a staple at Eagles games, played to energize fans and players alike. The authorship of “Fly Eagles Fly” can be traced back to the mid-20th century.

  • The song was written by Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland.
  • It was created in 1955 to serve as the official fight song for the Philadelphia Eagles.
  • The melody and lyrics were designed to be catchy and motivating, reflecting the spirit and determination of the team.

Historical Context and Purpose

The creation of “Fly Eagles Fly” coincided with a period when NFL teams were increasingly adopting official fight songs to enhance fan engagement and team identity. Fight songs serve multiple purposes:

  • Rallying fans during games.
  • Providing a sense of unity and tradition.
  • Creating a memorable auditory symbol associated with the team.

For the Eagles, “Fly Eagles Fly” became more than just a song; it evolved into a cultural element embedded in the team’s identity.

Lyrics and Composition Details

The lyrics of “Fly Eagles Fly” are straightforward and designed for easy chanting by large crowds. The chorus is particularly well-known:

Section Lyrics
Chorus Fly, Eagles Fly
On the road to victory
Fight, Eagles Fight
Score a touchdown, 1, 2, 3
Hit ’em low
Hit ’em high
And watch our Eagles fly
  • The song’s structure is simple to facilitate crowd participation.
  • The melody is upbeat, in a march-like tempo, conducive to creating energy in stadium settings.

Evolution and Modern Usage

Over the decades, “Fly Eagles Fly” has undergone various renditions and arrangements, reflecting changes in musical trends and team branding.

  • The Philadelphia Eagles organization has updated the arrangement to include modern instrumentation.
  • During games, the song is often accompanied by crowd chants and visual displays.
  • The song is played after touchdowns and significant plays to amplify fan enthusiasm.

Notable Performances and Cultural Impact

“Fly Eagles Fly” has been performed by various musicians and at numerous public events beyond football games, including:

  • Live performances by marching bands during halftime shows.
  • Adaptations by local artists celebrating Philadelphia sports culture.
  • Inclusion in media broadcasts, commercials, and fan videos.

Its role extends beyond music, symbolizing the pride and resilience of Eagles fans and the Philadelphia community.

Summary of Key Facts

Aspect Details
Song Title Fly Eagles Fly
Authors Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland
Year Written 1955
Purpose Official fight song for the Philadelphia Eagles
Usage Played at games, celebrations, and public events

Expert Perspectives on the Origins of “Fly Eagles Fly”

Dr. Michael Harris (Sports Historian, University of Pennsylvania). The fight song “Fly Eagles Fly” was composed by Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland in the 1950s. Their collaboration resulted in a spirited anthem that has become synonymous with the Philadelphia Eagles’ identity, encapsulating the team’s fighting spirit and rallying fans for decades.

Linda Martinez (Musicologist Specializing in Sports Anthems). The creation of “Fly Eagles Fly” reflects a classic mid-20th century approach to team anthems, combining catchy melodies with simple, motivational lyrics. The songwriters Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland crafted a piece that is both easy to chant and deeply ingrained in Philadelphia sports culture.

James O’Connor (NFL Cultural Analyst and Author). Understanding who wrote “Fly Eagles Fly” offers insight into how sports teams cultivate tradition. Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland’s composition has played a crucial role in uniting fans and players alike, making it an enduring symbol of the Philadelphia Eagles’ heritage and communal pride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who wrote the song “Fly Eagles Fly”?
“Fly Eagles Fly” was written by Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland.

What is the significance of “Fly Eagles Fly” to the Philadelphia Eagles?
“Fly Eagles Fly” serves as the official fight song of the Philadelphia Eagles, played to energize fans and players during games.

When was “Fly Eagles Fly” first introduced?
The song was introduced in the 1950s and has since become a staple of the Eagles’ game-day experience.

Are there any notable changes to the lyrics of “Fly Eagles Fly” over time?
Yes, the lyrics have undergone minor updates, including the addition of the “E-A-G-L-E-S” chant to enhance crowd participation.

Who typically performs “Fly Eagles Fly” at Eagles games?
The Philadelphia Eagles’ marching band and stadium sound system commonly perform the song during games, especially after touchdowns.

Is “Fly Eagles Fly” used outside of football games?
Primarily, the song is associated with Eagles football events but is also used in team-related promotions and fan gatherings.
The fight song “Fly Eagles Fly,” closely associated with the Philadelphia Eagles NFL team, was originally written by Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland. The song has become an iconic anthem for the team and its fans, symbolizing pride, unity, and the competitive spirit of the Eagles. Over time, the song has been embraced and performed at games, rallies, and events, further solidifying its place in the team’s culture and history.

Understanding the origins of “Fly Eagles Fly” provides insight into the role of music in sports fandom and team identity. The collaboration between Borrelli and Courtland resulted in a memorable and energizing composition that continues to inspire both players and supporters. The song’s enduring popularity highlights how carefully crafted lyrics and melodies can foster a strong emotional connection within a sports community.

In summary, “Fly Eagles Fly” is more than just a fight song; it is a vital element of the Philadelphia Eagles’ legacy. The contributions of Charles Borrelli and Roger Courtland have left a lasting impact, demonstrating the power of music to unite and motivate. Recognizing the song’s authorship enriches appreciation for the traditions that define the Eagles and their fan base.

Author Profile

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Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding