One of the most iconic traditions in New York Yankees history is coming to an end. Since 1980, “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra has echoed through Yankee Stadium after every Yankees game, win or lose. But starting this season, that will no longer be the case.
The Yankees and Sinatra, a tradition at every game
The tradition began in 1980 when team owner George Steinbrenner heard Sinatra’s version of “New York, New York” at a nightclub and decided it perfectly captured the spirit of the Yankees. He personally arranged for it to be played at Yankee Stadium after every game.
For years, the Liza Minnelli version of the song was used after losses, while Sinatra’s played after wins. But in the mid-1990s, after Minnelli objected, the team switched exclusively to Sinatra’s version for both outcomes. That practice remained untouched, until now.
What happens now if the Yankees lose?
The first change came during a recent spring training game, when fans leaving the stadium after a Yankees loss heard Sinatra’s “That’s Life” instead of the usual anthem. According to the team, future losses will feature a mix of Sinatra’s catalog, but never the signature tune.
The Yankees say this shift will make “New York, New York” a symbol of victory rather than a general post-game tradition. It’s part of a broader effort by the franchise to modernize its image. Just days after lifting the ban on players sporting beards, another rule that had been in place since the Steinbrenner era.
A fresh start
The Yankees have confirmed that Sinatra’s famous anthem will now be reserved for victories only. After a loss, fans will instead hear a rotating selection of Sinatra songs. The change has already taken effect.
It marks the end of a decades-long ritual that has defined the post-game experience in the Bronx.
For many New Yorkers, hearing Sinatra’s “New York, New York” after a Yankees game was more than just a song, it was a ritual, a moment of unity whether the team won or lost.
Either way, one thing is certain. Next time you hear those famous lyrics inside Yankee Stadium, it will mean one thing, victory.