(Image: Michael Bailey)
A new recording of Geordie anthem The Blaydon Races featuring a North East cathedral's historic organ has been released by Newcastle United to celebrate the region's musical heritage.
Made with Generator and Interval Records, the track features Newcastle Cathedral’s organ, vocals from North Shields band Hector Gannet and Northumbrian pipes played by Chris Ormston.
Ian Roberts, director of music at Newcastle Cathedral, said: "The Cathedral’s organ has been part of Newcastle’s musical life for centuries, and it’s wonderful to hear it alongside Hector Gannet and the Northumbrian pipes in this new recording.
Newcastle Cathedral’s historic organ features in a new recording of Geordie anthem The Blaydon Races released by Newcastle United (Image: Michael Bailey)
"We’re pleased to contribute to a song that means so much to people across the region, and to share the organ’s sound with a wider audience."
Supporters helped shape the recording, which draws on the song’s folk roots and has a fresh sound for St James’ Park and beyond.
‘The Blaydon Races’ was written by music hall entertainer George Ridley and first performed at Balmbra’s music hall in 1862. The venue stood across the road from the Cathedral and is mentioned in the song’s opening verse.
Hector Gannet band (Image: Supplied)
Producer Alex Blamire explained the organ’s significance in a behind-the-scenes video filmed at the Cathedral and shared by Newcastle United online.
Mr Blamire said: "The organ was here when the song was written.
"The air the organ breathes in, the air that it pushes out through the pipes to make the sound, is the air of our city.
"That’s what we wanted to get across in the track. This is our track.
"‘The Blaydon Races’ is our regional anthem."
Parts of the organ date back to 1676, when the building was still St Nicholas’ Church.
Blaydon Races song artwork (Image: Supplied)
The organ has helped power Newcastle’s musical and community life for centuries.
It accompanies Choral Evensong almost daily and features in free Monday afternoon recitals, concerts, festivals, celebrations and commemorations.
Newcastle Cathedral is currently running a fundraising appeal to preserve the instrument for future generations.
Supporters can sponsor a pipe, make a donation, or book a Grand Organ Experience as part of the campaign.
The Blaydon Races has echoed around St James’ Park for decades and been passed down through generations for more than 160 years.
Newcastle United’s Fan Advisory Board and supporter groups helped shape the recording during workshops and listening sessions, advising on tempo, singalong appeal and stadium sound.
It debuted before Newcastle United’s Premier League match against Aston Villa on Saturday, October 17, with a live performance by Hector Gannet.
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An accompanying music video on Newcastle United’s official YouTube channel celebrates everyday life across the North East and the identity inspired by the song.
The recording, credited to Newcastle United and Hector Gannet, is available on all major streaming platforms.
Fans can support the cathedral’s organ appeal by sponsoring a pipe, donating or booking a Grand Organ Experience through the Newcastle Cathedral website.