Who Made the Barcelona Anthem?

By Robert Palmer

The Barcelona anthem, commonly known as the “Cant del Barça” or “El Cant del Barça,” is a rousing and iconic song that has become synonymous with the football club. It is often sung by the team’s passionate fans before and during matches, creating an electric atmosphere in the stadium. But have you ever wondered who composed this legendary anthem?

The Composer: Josep Maria Espinàs

The Barcelona anthem was composed by Josep Maria Espinàs, a renowned Catalan writer and journalist. Espinàs was born on September 21, 1927, in Barcelona, Catalonia. He had a deep love for his city and its football club, which led him to create one of the most celebrated anthems in football history.

Inspiration for the Anthem

Espinàs was inspired to write the Barcelona anthem after attending a match between FC Barcelona and their arch-rivals Real Madrid at Camp Nou stadium in 1974. The electrifying atmosphere and passionate chants from the crowd left a lasting impression on him.

Driven by his love for both Barcelona and poetry, Espinàs set out to compose an anthem that would capture the spirit of the club and its fans. He wanted to create something that would resonate deeply with supporters and become an integral part of their identity.

The Lyrics: A Reflection of Catalan Identity

After weeks of contemplation and careful crafting of words, Espinàs completed the lyrics for the Barcelona anthem. The verses not only express love and devotion for FC Barcelona but also reflect the broader Catalan identity.

Here are some excerpts from the Barcelona anthem:

  • “Tot el camp”
  • “És un clam”
  • “Som la gent blaugrana”
  • “Tan se val d’on venim”

The lyrics, when translated to English, mean:

The entire stadium is a roar
We are the blue and scarlet people
It doesn’t matter where we come from

These stirring words beautifully encapsulate the unity and pride felt by Barcelona fans, regardless of their background or origin.

Adoption as the Official Anthem

Since its composition, the Barcelona anthem has become an inseparable part of the club’s identity. It is sung by thousands of loyal fans at every home game, filling the stadium with passion and energy.

The anthem was officially adopted by FC Barcelona in 1974 and has since become an integral part of the club’s traditions. It serves as a symbol of solidarity and unity among supporters, reinforcing their love for both the team and Catalonia.

In Conclusion

The Barcelona anthem, composed by Josep Maria Espinàs, is a powerful ode to FC Barcelona and its passionate fans. Its lyrics reflect not only love for the club but also the broader Catalan identity. This iconic anthem continues to inspire and unite supporters at every match, making it an essential part of Barcelona’s rich history.