The song that is the new world-wide anthem to the global coronavirus pandemic was first heard at the time of another human catastrophe – World War II. Originally a Rodgers and Hammerstein showtune from the musical “Carousel,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone” has since been covered countless times, from the likes of Elvis to Sinatra, and Roy Orbison to Olivia Newton John.

Most notable, perhaps was by Merseyside band Gerry and the Pacemakers, who hit No. 1 in 1963 with their version of the song, which was immediately and more famously adopted as the official anthem of Liverpool Football Club, where, to this day, more than 50,000 fans sing it in its entirety moments before kick-off at each game at Anfield stadium – a truly spine-tingling experience.

At present, the latest chapter in the storied history of You’ll Never Walk Alone is being written as the song rapidly becomes a worldwide anthem of hope and resistance against the coronavirus epidemic, and specifically meant to show support for medical staff and first responders and those under quarantine due to COVID-19.

Here is the Gerry and the Pacemakers version:

Lyrics

When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don’t be afraid of the dark
At the end of a storm
There’s a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark
Walk on through the wind
Walk on through the rain
Though your dreams be tossed and blown
Walk on, walk on
With hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone
You’ll never walk alone
Walk on, walk on
With hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone
You’ll never walk alone