Who Performs The Sunday Night Football Song? The Story Behind The Iconic Anthem - The song was inspired by Joan Jett’s 1988 hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You.” The theme song plays a significant role in attracting and retaining viewers. Its energetic vibe sets the tone for the broadcast, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. For many fans, the song is an essential part of the Sunday Night Football experience.
The song was inspired by Joan Jett’s 1988 hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”
The lyrics of the Sunday Night Football theme song are designed to build anticipation and set the tone for the game. Lines like “We’ve been waiting all day for Sunday night” perfectly capture the excitement of fans eagerly awaiting kickoff.
Underwood rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of “American Idol” in 2005. Since then, she has become one of the most successful artists in country music, earning numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, CMAs, and ACMs. Her involvement with Sunday Night Football has further cemented her status as a cultural icon.
Sunday Night Football has been airing on NBC since 2006.
The lyrics are typically written by a team of professional songwriters and producers.
Moreover, the song’s high production value, coupled with its association with one of the most-watched TV programs, has cemented its place in pop culture.
The Sunday Night Football theme song has an interesting history that dates back to 2006 when NBC acquired the rights to air NFL games on Sunday nights. The network wanted an anthem that would capture the energy, excitement, and competitive spirit of the sport. This led to the creation of “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” which was inspired by Joan Jett’s rock hit.
As of now, Carrie Underwood is the face—and voice—of the Sunday Night Football theme song. Her partnership with NBC began in 2025, succeeding Faith Hill, another country music legend. Underwood’s performance of the anthem, titled “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” is a reimagined version of Joan Jett’s 1988 classic “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”
The original performer of the theme song was Pink, who brought her edgy style to the anthem for the inaugural season. Over the years, the song has evolved, with each artist adding their unique touch. Faith Hill took over in 2007, followed by Carrie Underwood in 2025, each leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
The original performer was Pink, who sang the theme song during the 2006 season.
Underwood’s selection as the performer was no coincidence. NBC sought an artist who could bring a combination of star power, vocal strength, and relatability to the show. Carrie Underwood, with her cross-genre appeal and widespread fan base, was the perfect fit. Her ability to connect with audiences across demographics made her an ideal choice for the role.
Several factors contribute to the iconic status of the Sunday Night Football theme song:
Sunday Night Football isn’t just a sports broadcast; it’s an event, a tradition, and a source of excitement for millions of fans. And at the heart of this weekly spectacle is its electrifying theme song, which sets the stage for the high-stakes action to come. But have you ever wondered: who does the Sunday Night Football song? The answer isn’t just a name—it’s a journey through music, sports, and entertainment culture that has evolved over the years.
Over the years, the Sunday Night Football song has undergone several transformations. From Pink’s rock-infused version to Faith Hill’s country-inspired rendition, and finally, to Carrie Underwood’s powerhouse performance, the song has remained relevant while adapting to changing musical trends.
Each artist contributed to the song’s legacy, ensuring it remained a fan favorite year after year.