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How a Local Rapper Scored the Yankees’ Anthem

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In New York, where big dreams meet even bigger moments, two artists from upstate managed to turn their love for music — and baseball — into something truly memorable. Local rapper Johnny 2 Phones and producer Hunna G made waves in 2025 by creating the official anthem for one of the most iconic franchises in sports: the New York Yankees. 

Their track, “Yankee, Baby,” isn’t just a song — it’s a reflection of their roots, energy, and pride in being part of the city’s cultural fabric. Bronx personal injury lawyers value this kind of creativity and drive. Just like the Yankees and their fans, we stand with the Bronx community in recognizing the voices that make this place so unique.

The Genesis of a Collaboration

Johnny 2 Phones (real name Gabriel Woodley) and Hunna G (Hunter Galvin) met back in 2017 at SUNY Oneonta. What started as a shared passion for music and the Yankees quickly grew into a collaborative partnership. Together, they began experimenting with sounds and ideas, releasing early tracks like “Gelato” and “Back on Base,” which helped them build an audience.

Outside of their studio work, both artists developed strong social media followings. Johnny became known for his “If You Can Dance” videos, where he brought strangers into impromptu dance sessions. Meanwhile, Hunna G’s “Take a Seat, Rap on the Beat” series turned random street interactions into clever freestyles. These viral moments helped the duo carve out a unique space in the local music scene — and eventually caught the eye of the Yankees themselves.

Crafting “Yankee, Baby”

When the Yankees’ marketing team approached them about creating a new stadium anthem, Johnny 2 Phones and Hunna G knew this was a rare opportunity. The team wasn’t just looking for a jingle — they wanted a sound that reflected the energy of the fans and the heritage of the team.

Musically, Hunna G layered bold percussion with shimmering piano melodies to give the track a lively, stadium-ready feel. Lyrically, Johnny 2 Phones paid homage to Yankees greats like Derek Jeter and brought in references to figures such as Michael Kay, while wrapping up with a modern nod to “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” The goal was clear: make something fun, easy to sing along to, and packed with local pride. The result was a song that felt both fresh and familiar.

The Music Video: A Celebration of New York

The “Yankee, Baby” music video doesn’t just support the song — it tells a story. It follows Johnny as he prepares for a game day, weaving through the rhythm of New York’s streets and leading up to the electrifying vibe of Yankee Stadium. Each frame reflects the energy of the city, the joy of fandom, and the anticipation that builds before first pitch.

The video also includes a series of cameo appearances, from Yankees star Aaron Judge to Knicks players Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, along with WNBA’s Breanna Stewart. It also features Bronx rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and celebrity chef Christian Petroni. Even the beloved Ellie the Elephant and social media favorites like Lil Mo Mozzarella make appearances. Filming took place in recognizable spots around the city, grounding the video in authenticity and celebrating the everyday New Yorker.

Reception and Impact

The anthem made its debut on Opening Day 2025, playing on the jumbotron at Yankee Stadium in front of a packed crowd. The reaction was instant — “Yankee, Baby” quickly became a talking point, with fans debating its place in the team’s tradition.

Many welcomed the anthem’s fresh sound and upbeat vibe, praising how it represented a younger generation of fans. Of course, some traditionalists were unsure if the song fit with the more classic atmosphere of Yankee games. Still, Johnny 2 Phones and Hunna G stood by their work, proud to contribute to the team’s legacy and connect with fans in a new way.

Cultural Significance

This project isn’t just about music — it’s about representation. For fans in the Bronx and across the city, “Yankee, Baby” reflects a growing movement where local voices are being heard in big places. It showcases how music, sports, and community can come together to create something meaningful.

The path Johnny and Hunna took — from college collaborators to artists featured in Yankee Stadium — offers inspiration for up-and-coming creatives. Their story shows that with consistency and a deep connection to your roots, local artists can play a major role in shaping the city’s culture. Now, with their song playing regularly at home games, they’ve become a part of Yankees history.

Conclusion

What started as a collaboration between two college students has turned into a soundtrack for one of baseball’s most storied franchises. Johnny 2 Phones and Hunna G’s “Yankee, Baby” is more than just an anthem — it’s a celebration of local talent, pride, and the energy that defines New York.

Bronx Injury Lawyers, P.C., is proud to uplift stories like these. They remind us that determination and community are at the heart of the Bronx — and always worth celebrating.