For New York Rangers fans, "whoa-oh-oh” versus “goal" is a tale as old as time.
When the New York Rangers score a goal at home, the two words of "whoa" and "hey" instantly come to mind. As such the Rangers goal song of 'Slapshot' has become quite synonymous to the Blueshirt fanbase for decades now; as is the chorus that rings throughout Madison Square Garden when the team lights the lamp has become one of the most well-known goal celebrations throughout the NHL.
Here's a look at the song's history and the importance it holds to the Rangers' franchise.
'Slapshot' by Ray Castoldi
'Slapshot' was written by longtime music director and organist for MSG Ray Castoldi back in 1995. It was performed by local band 'Bad Apple' and debuted on January 20, 1995.
Inspiration for Castoldi came during the 1994-95 league lockout as the Rangers sought to create a celebration song that was unique to the franchise and would not be available for airing on the radio. The Blueshirts won the 1994 Stanley Cup and Castoldi wrote the signature song to build off the team's recent success.
Ever since, a portion of 'Slapshot' typically 35-40 seconds in length plays following the goal horn everytime a Blueshirt scores at home. Of course — fans at MSG sing along to the song whose lyrics begin with "woah" and then later include the ever-famous "Hey's!"
The 'Slapshot' Curse
While the song is one of the more well-known goal celebrations of the league, it also comes with a significant downfall in Rangers' history.
The team hasn't won a title since the song was introduced the very year after the Blueshirts lifted the cup in 1994. Since then, the Rangers have made it back to the Stanley Cup Final just once since 'Slapshot' has been their goal song, which came in 2014 when the team lost to the Kings.
For the 2025-26 Rangers, let's hope this is the year they break the "curse."