How a Garage Rock Song from 2003 Became the World’s Favorite Chant
In 2003, The White Stripes released a song that would go on to become a global anthem – “Seven Nation Army.” Jack White, along with Meg White, crafted this iconic track in London, recording at Toe Rag Studios without much external assistance. Jack had initially considered the riff for a potential James Bond movie theme, but eventually decided to use it for their album “Elephant,” which changed the trajectory of their musical journey.
The song kicks off with a distinctive guitar hook that is often mistaken for bass, but in reality, it’s Jack playing his semi-acoustic guitar through a pedal to drop the tone an octave. This unique sound caught the attention of music listeners around the world and propelled “Seven Nation Army” to the top of Billboard’s Modern Rock chart. The White Stripes even earned a Grammy for Best Rock Song in 2004, solidifying their place in music history.
Surprisingly, in 2006, the song found a new audience when fans of Italy’s A.S. Roma soccer club started chanting the riff after a victorious match against Club Brugge. This chant quickly spread across European stadiums, and its catchy tune made it easy for World Cup crowds to join in, even without knowing the lyrics. Over time, the chant transcended sports, becoming a symbol of unity, used in protests, celebrations, and gatherings to bring people together in a shared experience.
Jack White expressed his surprise at the widespread popularity of the chant, acknowledging that it had taken on a life of its own and now felt like it belonged to the fans who embraced it. By 2025, “Seven Nation Army” had accumulated over a billion streams on Spotify and received recognition from Rolling Stone as one of the Top 250 Songs of the 21st Century. More than two decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie among strangers in various settings.
The simple riff that Jack White crafted in 2003 has become more than just a song – it has become a cultural phenomenon, uniting people across different backgrounds and contexts through the power of music. Whether it’s heard in a sports stadium, a protest march, or a music venue, “Seven Nation Army” remains a timeless anthem that brings individuals together in a shared moment of collective energy and empowerment.