In a season that hasn`t met expectations domestically, two prominent English clubs find themselves vying for European glory in a final. While their Premier League campaigns faltered, the Europa League represents a potential redemption. For Tottenham Hotspur and their manager, this European night could be a pivotal moment.
Adding a unique element to the occasion, Spurs are heading to the final in Bilbao with a brand-new anthem. Crafted by Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe-winning composers and devoted Tottenham supporters, Jimmy Napes and Paul Epworth, the track was released just before the match, providing a fresh soundtrack for a potentially unforgettable night.
The Song`s Origins
What began as a casual conversation over drinks between two passionate Spurs fans evolved into a powerful anthem celebrating the club`s identity and community spirit. This track is now set to resonate with fans and could become a defining sound for a significant European fixture.
Jimmy Napes explained: “This isn`t about this season`s highs and lows, or a cup final, it is a celebration of the club and its identity, including obviously its location in a certain part of London. I don`t think I`ve ever had more fun making a record in my life. Tottenham til I die!”
Paul Epworth added: “What started as a light-hearted conversation with Jimmy over a pint about the idea of working together soon turned into one of the most ambitious productions I`ve ever been involved with… No one asked for a new Tottenham song, I`m not sure anyone even wanted one, but Jimmy and I knew if we got it right and the release was timed correctly, then it had the potential to help propel us to more glory, glory nights.”
`To Dare Is To Do` Song Lyrics
It was underneath this lamppost in the Tottenham High Road,
that in September 1882, a group of young members of the Hotspur Cricket Club,
met to form a football section.
(Chorus)
To dare is to do,
To dare is to do,
Pride of North London since 1882,
Echoes of glory to victorious new,
We are Tottenham Hotspur.
(Verse 2)
To dare is to do,
To dare is to do,
Pride of North London repeat by anew,
Feels like we’re dreaming—until it comes true,
We are Tottenham Hotspur, we`ll throw the roof!
(Bridge)
If you`re from North London, you`re Spurs through and through
We are Tottenham Hotspur!
To dare is to do,
(Chorus)
We are the Hotspur, Tottenham is our home!
We are the Hotspur, Tottenham is our home!
We are the Hotspur, Tottenham is our home!
We are the Hotspur, Tottenham is our home!
(Outro – Chant)
Is our home, is our home, is our home, is our home…
To dare is to do,
To dare is to do… (repeat to fade)
Meaning and Identity
Tottenham`s new anthem is more than just music; it`s a reflection of the Spurs spirit. The vocals feature a choir of Tottenham fans, alongside children from schools connected to the composers` own kids. Stirring string arrangements by fellow supporters Rosie Danvers and TommyD, and a mix by Los Angeles-based Lilywhite Patrick Ford, complete the sound.
The track also incorporates authentic crowd noise recorded during the electric Europa League semi-final night at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The song draws heavily from the club`s famous motto: “To dare is to do.” This isn`t merely a phrase; it`s a philosophy rooted in daring to dream, acting on belief, and pursuing extraordinary goals, even if consistent trophy success has been elusive, particularly compared to local rivals.
The club has historically been known for its entertaining, ambitious, and bold approach. The motto, “Audere est Facere” (Latin for “To dare is to do”), is central to this identity, etched into the stadium walls and woven into the club`s fabric. It serves as a call to action for everyone associated with Spurs to embrace courage and ambition on and off the pitch. With this new anthem and a European final ahead, Tottenham`s hopefuls are ready to dare once more.