Who Sang Sunday Night Football Before Carrie Underwood?
Sunday Night Football, the highly anticipated weekly NFL broadcast on NBC, has become synonymous with its iconic theme song. Over the years, several talented artists have had the honor of performing the Sunday Night Football theme, captivating audiences with their renditions. Before Carrie Underwood took the reins as the theme song vocalist in 2013, there were notable singers who left their mark on this cherished football tradition.
Faith Hill’s Memorable Stint
From 2007 to 2012, country singer Faith Hill graced the Sunday Night Football stage as the theme song vocalist. During her tenure, Hill’s captivating voice brought a fresh twist to the familiar tune. The theme song was a new arrangement of Joan Jett’s “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” perfectly capturing the energy and excitement of Sunday Night Football. Hill’s rendition resonated with fans across the country, becoming an integral part of the Sunday night viewing experience.
Carrie Underwood’s Phenomenal Takeover
In 2013, Carrie Underwood stepped into the spotlight as the new face and voice of Sunday Night Football. Underwood’s version of the theme song, titled “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” became an instant hit among fans. Her powerful vocals and undeniable stage presence added a dynamic flair to the broadcast, elevating the excitement to new heights. Since then, Underwood has become synonymous with Sunday Night Football, capturing the essence of the game week after week.
Past and Present Song Choices
Interestingly, the original theme song choice in 2006 was also “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night.” However, NBC decided to explore other options before returning to the familiar tune. In the inaugural year of Sunday Night Football, singer-songwriter Pink had the honor of performing the theme song, setting the stage for the years to come.
In 2018, Underwood briefly switched to the tune “Game On,” which garnered mixed reactions from NFL audiences. However, in 2019, the original theme song, “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” made a triumphant return. To celebrate this comeback, Underwood’s performance that year featured a special appearance by Joan Jett herself, solidifying the theme song’s iconic status.
The Iconic Sunday Night Football Theme
The Sunday Night Football theme song has become an integral part of the NFL viewing experience. Its catchy melody and empowering lyrics resonate with fans as they eagerly anticipate the start of each game. Whether it was Faith Hill’s captivating rendition or Carrie Underwood’s electrifying performances, the theme song has left an indelible mark on football enthusiasts worldwide.
Sources:
- “Carrie Underwood Records Her Football Theme Song for All Potential Matchups” – SiriusXM Blog (https://blog.siriusxm.com/carrie-underwood-sunday-night-football-song-video)
- “Who sings the Sunday Night Football theme song? A look at its history” – Cincinnati.com (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/television/2023/10/14/who-sings-sunday-night-football-theme-song-carrie-underwood/71142252007/)
- “Your Guide to Carrie Underwood’s Sunday Night Football Song” – NBC Insider (https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/your-guide-to-carrie-underwoods-sunday-night-football-song)
FAQs
Who sang the Sunday Night Football theme song before Carrie Underwood?
Before Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill was the vocalist for the Sunday Night Football theme song from 2007 to 2012.
What was the original theme song choice for Sunday Night Football?
The original theme song choice for Sunday Night Football in 2006 was also “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” which was later explored with different options before returning to the familiar tune.
Who performed the Sunday Night Football theme song in NBC’s first year airing the program?
In NBC’s first year airing Sunday Night Football in 2006, singer-songwriter Pink had the honor of performing the theme song.
When did Carrie Underwood start singing the Sunday Night Football theme song?
Carrie Underwood took over as the Sunday Night Football theme song vocalist in 2013.
What is the title of Carrie Underwood’s version of the Sunday Night Football theme song?
Carrie Underwood’s version of the Sunday Night Football theme song is titled “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night.”
Did Carrie Underwood switch to a different theme song at any point?
In 2018, Carrie Underwood briefly switched to the tune “Game On” but returned to the original theme song, “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” in 2019.
Who replaced Faith Hill as the Sunday Night Football theme song vocalist?
Carrie Underwood replaced Faith Hill as the Sunday Night Football theme song vocalist in 2013.
Has the Sunday Night Football theme song always been the same?
No, the Sunday Night Football theme song has undergone changes over the years. Different arrangements and variations have been explored, but the original theme song, “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” has remained a fan favorite and made a triumphant return in 2019.