Who Performs The Sunday Night Football Song? The Story Behind The Iconic Anthem - 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.” 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.
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.”
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.
Each artist contributed to the song’s legacy, ensuring it remained a fan favorite year after year.
In the world of sports entertainment, music plays a pivotal role in creating an immersive experience. The Sunday Night Football anthem is no exception. Performed by some of the biggest names in the music industry, this theme song has become a beloved tradition, hyping up fans before each game. From its catchy lyrics to its powerhouse vocals, it’s more than just a song—it’s a celebration of football.
Before Carrie Underwood, two other talented artists had the honor of performing the Sunday Night Football theme song:
Compared to other sports theme songs, the Sunday Night Football anthem stands out for its mainstream appeal and star-studded performances. While other leagues have iconic tunes, few can match the cultural impact and popularity of this NFL classic.
The song was inspired by Joan Jett’s 1988 hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”
The production of the Sunday Night Football theme song is a collaborative effort involving talented musicians, songwriters, and producers. From crafting the lyrics to fine-tuning the arrangement, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure the song resonates with fans.
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.
The original performer was Pink, who sang the theme song during the 2006 season.
Carrie Underwood performs the Sunday Night Football theme song, and she was chosen for her ability to connect with fans through her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence. Her performance embodies the energy and excitement of NFL games, making her the perfect ambassador for the league’s flagship program.
Carrie Underwood began performing the anthem in 2025.
No, the song undergoes occasional updates to keep it fresh and engaging.
Underwood’s version has even seen updates, including new lyrics and arrangements to keep it fresh for loyal viewers. This evolution reflects the NFL’s commitment to staying connected with its diverse fan base.
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.