Cleveland Akron, OH, September 19, 2026 — NBC has introduced a new iteration of its popular Sunday Night Football theme song, set to debut for the 2026 season. The updated track features a rock-inspired sound and includes vocals from country music superstar Carrie Underwood.

The network’s latest musical offering for the NFL’s primetime broadcast has begun trending, with initial reports indicating significant interest within the Cleveland-Akron (Canton) region. This marks a shift in the established sound of the program, which has historically relied on Underwood’s vocal contributions.

Carrie Underwood has been a staple of the Sunday Night Football opening since 2013, performing the theme song which was originally based on Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ “I Hate Myself for Loving You.” Her involvement has become synonymous with the start of each week’s featured NFL game.

The decision to reimagine the theme with a rock-inspired arrangement suggests a move to invigorate the long-standing musical identity of the broadcast. The specifics of the new rock arrangement and how it differs musically from previous versions are not detailed in the initial release. Similarly, the extent of Carrie Underwood’s involvement in the reimagining process beyond her vocal performance is not specified.

The trend in the Cleveland-Akron (Canton) area suggests local interest in sports broadcasts and their associated cultural elements. Further details regarding the full release of the updated theme song and its integration into the 2026 season’s programming are anticipated.


Story summarized from the original created by Chris Pugh on www.cleveland.com, see more information here.

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