The Fascinating History of West Ham's 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' Chant

The Musical Legacy of West Ham's Anthem

Some songs become deeply intertwined with the culture of a football club, often overshadowing their original roots. One such example is West Ham United's chant 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles,' a melody that has transcended its Broadway origins to become a powerful symbol of the East London club.

The Origins of 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles'

This iconic anthem has a rich history dating back nearly a century. The song was first introduced in the 1918 Broadway musical The Passing Show, composed by John Kellette, with lyrics credited to a collective pseudonym known as Jaan Kenbrovin. This name represents several lyricists, including James Kendis, James Brockman, and Nat Vincent.

A Broadway Hit Finds Its Way to West Ham

The song gained significant popularity throughout the 1920s, spreading across music halls in Britain. It was during this period that West Ham United adopted the catchy tune, but it entered their culture through a rather unique channel.

From Schoolyard to Stadium

The connection between the song and West Ham was notably established through a schoolboy player named Billy J. Murray. He was affectionately nicknamed "Bubbles" due to his resemblance to a character in a Millais painting that featured a child next to a soap advertisement. The song was often sung by Cornelius Beal, the headmaster of the Park School, whenever Murray performed exceptionally on the field.

Beal's friendship with West Ham's manager, Charlie Paynter, and his connections with several players only served to strengthen the bond between the club and the song. Over time, West Ham fans adopted 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' as their own, leading to a lasting tradition.

Evolving Through the Years

The song has seen various adaptations over the decades, showcasing its flexibility within the musical landscape. One notable reinterpretation came in the punk era with the band Cockney Rejects in 1980, who provided a fresh take on the classic.

Centennial festivities in 2018 brought additional recognition to the anthem, as Alex Mendham & His Orchestra performed a special arrangement during a celebration at the London Stadium, West Ham's new home.

A Celebration of Bubbles at Matches

West Ham's unique matchday experience includes the visual spectacle of bubbles. This tradition reached its peak on May 16, 1999, when approximately 24,000 fans participated in an event to blow bubbles, creating a world record that further cemented the song's emblematic status among West Ham supporters.

The Lyrics of 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles'

Below are the lyrics to the version of the song sung by West Ham supporters:

I'm forever blowing bubbles,
Pretty bubbles in the air,
They fly so high,
They reach the sky,

Conclusion

From its Broadway roots to the stands of the London Stadium, 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' has become more than just a song for West Ham fans; it is a symbol of their identity and spirit. Whether heard on the pitch or during jubilant celebrations, this anthem continues to resonate, bringing together generations of supporters in a shared love for their club.