From sold-out playoff games to national broadcasts, the country's biggest stages call on Jim to start the show.
Broadcast live on national television
Wrigley Field
December 31, 2025 marked my third NHL Winter Classic and second at Wrigley Field. This time, I sang from the roof of the Cubs’ dugout. My previous Winter Classics were in 2009 and 2019. What a tradition, and what great fun.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Three hundred and fifty thousand fans. The largest single-day sporting event in the world. The race doesn’t begin until “Back Home Again in Indiana” is sung. After more than 10 years, I’m still blown away by The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.
Soldier Field
A playoff night at Soldier Field in 2026. Sixty thousand voices roared from the first note and turned into song through the cold, snow, and wind. It was unforgettable. What an incredible day to be a Bears fan.
Chicago
Look at that Chicago skyline over a sea of Blackhawks fans. Three Stanley Cups. Three unbelievable rallies. Millions of fans. I don’t believe I’ll ever sing for a larger crowd. Thank you, Chicago.
Soldier Field
Ten years after 9/11, I stood at Soldier Field to sing. The silence before the first note. Sixty thousand people standing together. In that moment, it was more than a song.
Medinah Country Club
Chosen to perform at one of sport’s greatest events. On Sunday morning at the first tee, I sang eight impromptu songs in four languages. Golf Channel wanted the anthem. I explained the Blackhawks anthem tradition, and the European fans cheered right along. Sometimes sports becomes something much bigger.
Scott Air Force Base
After meeting General Ray Johns at a Blackhawks game, I was invited to Scott Air Force Base and inducted as Honorary Squadron Commander for the USAF Bands of Mid-America. Here I’m with General Johns while judging the USAF Icon vocal competition. Plenty of talent in our Air Force.
United Center
My mom served as an Army nurse during World War II, advancing through France into Germany. Having her honored on the ice while I sang the anthem remains the most personal moment of my career. Thank you for your service, Mom. Go Army.
The Colbert Report
On September 11, 2014, Stephen Colbert asked me to close his show on the 200th anniversary of the National Anthem. He asked to sing with me. Nervous about his comedic instincts, I said no. He joined me anyway. Thanks, Mr. Colbert.
Soldier Field
The NFL’s 100th season opened in 2019 at Soldier Field before a national audience. The league could have chosen anyone. Being the voice to open that celebration was a humbling honor in my career.
From sold-out stadiums to championship stages, these are the performances people never forget.
Jim's performances have captivated audiences and media alike, from ESPN to the Wall Street Journal.
About
Jim Cornelison has performed in opera houses across America and Europe before bringing his voice to some of the world’s most iconic sporting events. As the son of World War II veterans, he’s witnessed firsthand the unifying power of the Star-Spangled Banner and remains committed to honoring veterans, their families, and the spirit of America. It’s what he means by Live the Salute.
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