Stadium Songs: Atlanta Braves

August, 6, 2012
8/06/12
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SandersAndy Hayt/Getty ImagesDeion Sanders' stint with the Atlanta Braves sparked a new tradition that's still alive today.
Every day of baseball season, in seventh innings around the country, fans stand and sing lyrics that were written way back in 1908. The sheer shelf life of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" proves that America’s first pastime has long been intertwined with its tunes. But for a more unique connection between city and club, teams rely on their own traditions -- some newer, some older.

We decided to find out the one song that each team relies on to get fans on their feet.

We're featuring the music from one team per day here on ESPN Playbook. To see past entries, click here.

Atlanta Braves
Song: “The Tomahawk Chop
Tradition: Played “because something great has happened or is about to happen,” game entertainment director Scott Cunningham says.

Fun facts:
• The Turner Field faithful make an ax-chopping motion in unison, as the wordless war chant plays over the loudspeakers.
• Fans started the chant and motion reminiscent of the Florida State fight song during the 1991 season because former Seminole Deion Sanders was the Braves' center fielder.
• Unlike most stadium songs, this one isn’t only inspiration for the home team; it’s also intimidation for the opposition.

Bonus music:
• John Denver’s “Country Boy” in the seventh inning.
• Ray Charles' “Georgia on My Mind” as walk-out music.

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