The U.S. team’s excitement during this World Cup is highlighted by their tradition of singing John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” with fans after matches. Even their coach, Mauricio Pochettino, joined in by singing after a 2-0 victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Pochettino, from Argentina, visibly enjoyed the jubilant moment with his team.
Bill Danoff, who co-wrote the song, expressed his pride. He believed that the late John Denver, who died in 1997, would have loved witnessing such a moment. Danoff has started appreciating soccer more, partly due to the song’s connection to the team. He said, “I wish John was here to see this.” The John Denver estate shared their excitement at the song’s revival, noting its enduring message and broad appeal.
“Everyone knows what ‘Take me home to the place I belong’ means,” the estate explained. “It’s not just about West Virginia.”
Origin of ‘Country Roads’
The song’s inspiration came from a Maryland drive, not West Virginia, despite its lyrics. Bill Danoff, along with his wife Taffy Nivert, thought of the song during a drive on Clopper Road in Maryland on their way to a family gathering. He mentioned in a 2020 interview that the lyrics reflected his nostalgic childhood memories from New England.
Danoff had limited experience with West Virginia but admired Appalachian music from Wheeling’s WWVA radio station in his youth. He was also inspired by actor Chris Sarandon and interactions with West Virginian fans at his concerts. Initially intended for Johnny Cash, the song changed direction when John Denver became interested in it during a visit to Danoff’s apartment. Denver recorded it and released it in 1971, becoming one of his most well-known hits.
‘Country Roads’ at the World Cup
The integration of “Country Roads” into the World Cup stemmed from FIFA’s initiative to engage U.S. fans. The song first played after the U.S. secured a 2-0 victory over Australia. It resonated well with the crowd both in the stadium and online. Midfielder Weston McKennie remarked the song strengthened their connection with fans.
However, after a disappointing match in Los Angeles against Turkey, the enthusiasm waned. Yet, it returned triumphantly in California following a victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Players like McKennie and Sebastian Berhalter celebrated passionately with fans.
Outside U.S. matches, “Country Roads” often plays during hydration breaks, receiving applause even when fans had been vocal against the breaks earlier.
A Sports Anthem Worldwide
“Country Roads” is already a favorite among sports fans. It is a fixture at West Virginia University football games, where fans sing it post-victory. The song also accompanies the NFL’s games in Germany and is sung at Oktoberfest celebrations. In English soccer, Manchester United fans have adapted the lyrics to highlight their home stadium, Old Trafford.
England’s Anthem
For the England national team, Oasis’ “Wonderwall” serves as an anthem during this World Cup. The players embrace the song, singing together after matches, following their lead from the opening win against Croatia. Captain Harry Kane expressed his affection for these moments, marking them among his cherished experiences in the national team.
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