Carrie Underwood Embraces Rock for 2026 SNF Opener

Carrie Underwood is set to deliver a rock-oriented performance for the opening of the 2026 "Sunday Night Football" season, marking a shift in her musical direction for the annual broadcast. The country music superstar, who has been the voice of "Sunday Night Football" for 14 consecutive years, will perform a newly reworked version of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' iconic 1988 hit, "I Hate Myself for Loving You." This marks a departure from her previous performances, which have predominantly featured country-inspired themes and arrangements.

The decision to incorporate a more pronounced rock sound reflects a desire to energize the opening sequence and align with the high-octane nature of professional football. Underwood's association with "Sunday Night Football" began in 2013 with the original theme song "Waiting All Day for Sunday Night," which itself was a cover of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' "Square Pegs." Over the years, the song has been adapted and updated, but the core country-rock foundation has remained. The upcoming rendition of "I Hate Myself for Loving You" signals a more deliberate embrace of the rock genre, potentially appealing to a broader audience and injecting a fresh dynamic into the long-standing tradition.

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' "I Hate Myself for Loving You" is known for its driving guitar riffs and anthemic chorus, characteristics that lend themselves well to a high-energy sports broadcast. The original song, released on the album "Up Your Alley," became a significant hit for the band, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1988. The choice of this particular song suggests an intention to create a powerful and memorable opening that resonates with the intensity of the NFL season. Underwood's vocal prowess is expected to bring a unique interpretation to the classic track, blending her established stage presence with the raw energy of rock and roll.

Carrie Underwood's tenure as the voice of "Sunday Night Football" is one of the longest in the show's history. Her consistent presence has made her an integral part of the NFL's weekly broadcast, with her theme songs becoming synonymous with the start of game days. The "Sunday Night Football" theme has evolved over the years, with different artists and songs being used before Underwood took over. Her initial theme, "Waiting All Day for Sunday Night," was a direct successor to P!nk's rendition of the same song. The subsequent years saw variations and new songs, including "Oh, Sunday Night" and "Game On," all performed by Underwood, maintaining a consistent, albeit evolving, musical identity for the broadcast. The upcoming rock-infused performance is poised to be another significant chapter in this ongoing musical tradition.