The electric atmosphere inside Glasgow's arenas is getting even more charged as England's athletes take to the podium, but it's not just the scores that are leaving fans buzzing – it's the anthems too! For the first time in history, 'Jerusalem' has taken centre stage at the Commonwealth Games, replacing the traditional 'God Save The King'. And what a sound it is! When Mark Swan claimed his historic gold medal in the Men's Lightweight para powerlifting event, the crowds were treated to an unforgettable rendition of this iconic hymn.
The story behind 'Jerusalem' becoming England's anthem at the Commonwealth Games dates back to 2010, when Team England conducted a public poll. The results were a narrow win for 'Jerusalem', with 52 per cent of the vote going its way – a decision that has been upheld ever since. It's not uncommon to hear this stirring hymn sung by English sports teams, from cricket to football, but its use at the Commonwealth Games adds an extra layer of significance.
So why do we sing 'Jerusalem' and not 'God Save The King'? Simply put, England doesn't have a single, universally adopted anthem for international sporting events – giving teams the freedom to choose their own. Cricket teams often opt for 'Jerusalem', while football and rugby union teams stick with the national anthem. It's this autonomy that allows each sport to forge its own identity.
'Jerusalem' is more than just a song, it's an adaptation of William Blake's poem 'And Did Those Feet in Ancient Times'. Written in 1804 as part of his epic verse 'Milton', the words were later set to music by Sir Hubert Parry in 1916 – a time when national morale needed a boost. The poem paints a vivid picture of a heavenly England, contrasting with the bleak industrialisation Blake criticised.
Despite its occasional association with republican sentiment, 'Jerusalem' has become an integral part of English cultural identity. Its poignant lyrics and historical significance have cemented its place in our nation's psyche – making it the perfect choice for sporting triumphs on the international stage.