For over 50 years, Monday Night Football (MNF) has been a staple for NFL fans, airing first on ABC in 1970 and moving to ESPN in 2006. An integral part of the broadcast’s identity is its theme song, which has evolved over the decades. Currently, a unique rendition of Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” sets the stage for each game. But how did the MNF theme song get here? Let’s explore the history of iconic tunes that have ushered in Monday night football.
The Current MNF Theme Song: A Modern Twist on a Classic
In 2023, the NFL introduced a new theme song performed by Chris Stapleton, Snoop Dogg, and Cindy Blackman Santana. This unlikely trio covered Phil Collins’ 1981 hit, “In The Air Tonight,” giving it a distinct MNF flavor. The decision sparked mixed reactions, with some praising its unique blend of genres and others criticizing the departure from tradition.
Hank Williams Jr.’s Reign: “All My Rowdy Friends” Era
Before the current iteration, country rocker Hank Williams Jr. dominated the MNF theme song landscape for over two decades. His reworked version of “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight,” titled “All My Rowdy Friends Are Here on Monday Night,” debuted in 1989. The song became synonymous with MNF, earning Williams Jr. four Emmy Awards.
The Controversy and Return of Hank Williams Jr.
In 2011, controversy struck when Williams Jr. made controversial comments comparing President Barack Obama to Hitler. ESPN swiftly removed him and his song from the MNF broadcast. For a few years, the network experimented with different versions of “Heavy Action,” a long-standing MNF jingle. However, in 2017, Williams Jr. and his iconic theme song returned, remaining in place until 2019.
Exploring Other MNF Theme Songs
The years following Williams Jr.’s initial departure saw further experimentation with the MNF theme song. In 2020, ESPN chose Little Richard’s “Rip It Up,” performed by Butcher Brown, as the new theme. Two years later, a remixed version of the classic “Heavy Action” melody, a staple since 1976, took center stage.
The Evolution Continues: From “Rowdy Friends” to “In The Air Tonight”
The MNF theme song’s journey reflects the evolution of both the broadcast and the NFL itself. From Hank Williams Jr.’s country rock anthem to the current blend of country, rap, and rock with the Stapleton-Snoop Dogg-Santana collaboration, the theme song continues to adapt while maintaining its role in setting the stage for a night of thrilling football. Each era of the MNF theme song evokes distinct memories for fans, solidifying its place in NFL history.
Where to Watch Monday Night Football
Due to recent Hollywood strikes, Monday Night Football currently airs on both ABC and ESPN, starting at 8:15 p.m. ET. Viewers can also stream the games on Watch ESPN. The broadcast remains a must-watch for football enthusiasts, offering a primetime showcase of NFL action accompanied by its now-iconic theme song.
