10 Best Songs About American Football

Adam Sandler

Feature Photo: Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock.com

Our article, “10 Best Songs About American Football,” zeroes in on the uniquely American pastime of football, a game celebrated across both NFL and collegiate teams within the United States. Contrary to global norms where “football” typically refers to what Americans know as soccer, this list celebrates the distinctly American iteration of the sport through its musical tributes.

The selection encompasses a variety of genres, from rock and pop to official game themes, each specifically crafted to capture the spirit of American football. This isn’t just about tracks that are popular at games—though those have their place. Instead, we’re highlighting songs genuinely about the sport, whether they’re tailored for NFL showdowns or college gridiron clashes. Some entries were originally penned for other purposes but have been skillfully adapted to resonate with football fans during game time.

Beyond just the beats and lyrics, these songs embody the thrill and camaraderie of football, offering fans anthems that are as integral to game day as the sport itself. They amplify the excitement, enhance the fan experience, and in some cases, have become inseparable from the games they celebrate. This list aims to showcase the best of these musical offerings, ensuring that the essence of American football is both heard and felt.

Victory – Dropkick Murphys

“Victory,” the Notre Dame Fight Song, captures the essence of collegiate spirit and athletic pride, and its rendition by the Dropkick Murphys offers a punk-infused tribute to this classic anthem. Known primarily for its instrumental vigor and rallying chorus, the song does not feature traditional lead vocals but is driven by the collective chant and instrumental bravado, a hallmark of fight songs that unite fans and players alike.

The original composition, crafted by Michael J. Shea and John F. Shea in 1908, has long been a staple at Notre Dame football games, serving as a sonic emblem of unity and competition. The song’s robust melody and stirring lyrics have made it a perennial favorite, encouraging players and fans to strive for victory with the rallying cry, “cheer, cheer for old Notre Dame.”

When the Dropkick Murphys, a band celebrated for their fusion of punk rock and traditional Celtic music, chose to cover “Victory,” they brought their distinctive energetic style to the forefront. Recorded at Q Division Studios in Somerville, Massachusetts, their version enhances the song with electric guitars, pounding drums, and bagpipes, reinforcing the traditional march with a modern, aggressive twist. This adaptation respects the original’s spirit while infusing it with a raw, invigorating energy that appeals to both sports fans and rock enthusiasts.

The Dropkick Murphys’ interpretation of “Victory” exemplifies how a sports anthem can transcend its origins and resonate across different musical genres and cultural contexts. It connects the dots between traditional college football anthems and the broader world of rock music, emphasizing themes of perseverance and solidarity. As the opening song in a compilation about the best rock songs related to football, “Victory” sets a dynamic tone, blending sports tradition with contemporary punk flair, and invites listeners to explore the interplay between athletic inspirations and musical expression.

Read More: Top 10 Dropkick Murphys Songs

Touchdown Boy – Blink-182

“Touchdown Boy” by Blink-182 captures the high-energy and irreverent style typical of the band’s early work. Featured on their 1994 album Cheshire Cat, the song mixes punk rock’s fast-paced rhythms with humorous lyrics that characterize much of the band’s music from this period. Unlike typical anthems or reflective pieces about sports, Blink-182’s approach is playful, incorporating elements of teenage life and light-hearted bravado.

Produced by O and the band themselves, “Touchdown Boy” showcases the raw, unpolished sound that defined Blink-182’s early years before they achieved mainstream success. The production values are straightforward, focusing on rapid drum beats, gritty guitar riffs, and spirited vocal performances that emphasize the youthful, carefree attitude of the band.

Lyrically, the song doesn’t delve deeply into the specifics of football; instead, it uses the idea of a “touchdown boy” as a metaphor for winning or succeeding, particularly in social or romantic scenarios. The lyrics, “He’ll play in your games and he’ll take all the blame off your back,” suggest a scenario where someone takes credit or gains favor, akin to a star athlete scoring the winning points in a game. This metaphorical use creates a playful narrative around the concept of high school popularity and success.

In a list focusing on the best rock songs about football, “Touchdown Boy” stands out for its metaphorical use of football terminology to discuss broader themes of adolescence and success. It contrasts with more literal or serious songs about the sport, offering a light-hearted take that aligns with Blink-182’s overall musical and lyrical style. This makes it an enjoyable, albeit less direct, addition to any collection of songs about or inspired by football.

“All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over For Monday Night Football” by Hank Williams Jr. is more than just a song; it became an iconic piece of American sports broadcasting history. Originally adapted from his own song “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight,” this version was specifically reworked for the Monday Night Football broadcasts on ABC and later ESPN, starting in 1989. The song effectively became synonymous with Monday night football, setting the tone for countless evenings of NFL action.

Produced with a blend of rock and country elements, the song features Williams’s distinctive, gritty vocal style and energetic instrumentation, making it instantly recognizable. It’s boisterous, celebratory, and perfectly captures the festive atmosphere of gathering with friends to watch football. The production mixes electric guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and Williams’s charismatic delivery, all of which emphasize the song’s party vibe.

Lyrically, “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over For Monday Night Football” is straightforward and festive, focusing on the excitement and communal spirit of watching football. It taps into the cultural ritual of fans congregating on Monday nights, ready to kick back, enjoy the game, and revel in the camaraderie. Lines like “Are you ready for some football?” became a rallying cry for viewers, enhancing the song’s status as a football anthem.

In the context of songs about football, Hank Williams Jr.’s track is a standout for its direct association with NFL broadcasts and its role in shaping the viewing experience of American football fans. It’s not just a song but an integral part of football culture, often played to hype up the crowd and viewers at home before the start of a game. This makes it a unique and memorable addition to any list of great football songs, celebrated not only for its musical qualities but also for its enduring presence in sports entertainment.

Sunday Night Football Theme

The “Sunday Night Football” theme, officially titled “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night,” has been a staple of the NBC Sunday Night Football broadcasts since 2006. The song is set to the tune of Joan Jett’s “I Hate Myself for Loving You” and has been performed by several prominent artists over the years, including Pink, Faith Hill, and Carrie Underwood, who has been the most enduring face of the theme since 2013.

The production of the theme song is a high-energy, polished affair that blends rock and pop elements to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for the broadcast. Each season often sees a new rendition or slight variation of the song, keeping it fresh while maintaining its core appeal. The production typically features robust instrumentation, including electric guitars, drums, and powerful vocals, all tailored to amp up viewers’ excitement for the upcoming game.

Lyrically, the song is designed to build anticipation and excitement about the NFL games, with lines that call out to the fans’ eagerness for the prime-time showdown. Lyrics like “Waiting all day for Sunday night” directly address the audience’s anticipation for the weekly marquee game. Over the years, the lyrics have been slightly modified to reflect the current musical artist’s style and to keep the theme resonant with football audiences.

In comparison to other football songs, the “Sunday Night Football” theme is unique because of its specific association with Sunday night broadcasts and its role in setting the tone for one of the most-watched sports events each week. Its adaptation from a rock song to a football anthem showcases how music can bridge entertainment mediums to enhance the fan experience. This song not only heightens the excitement for the viewers but also serves as a musical icon in sports broadcasting.

Faith Hill Version

Carrie Underwood Versions

 

Not As Much As Football – Mojo Nixon

“Not As Much As Football” by Mojo Nixon is a song that humorously tackles the American obsession with football, positioning the sport as an ultimate priority over virtually everything else in life. This track is part of Nixon’s 1994 album Otis, known for its satirical take on various cultural topics, combining rock with country influences.

Produced with a raw and energetic style, the song features Nixon’s characteristic vocal twang and a straightforward, driving instrumental arrangement that underscores the playful and irreverent lyrics. The production captures the essence of Mojo Nixon’s music—loose, loud, and filled with character, making it instantly recognizable and distinctively entertaining.

Lyrically, “Not As Much As Football” is both a critique and a celebration of how deeply football is ingrained in American culture. Nixon sings about various scenarios and relationships, always concluding that nothing holds as much interest or importance as football does. The chorus, “I love you baby, but not as much as football,” encapsulates the song’s central humorous thesis, offering a tongue-in-cheek look at the priorities of a die-hard football fan.

In comparison to other songs on a list of rock songs about football, “Not As Much As Football” stands out for its comedic approach. While other tracks might glorify the sport or describe personal experiences related to football, Mojo Nixon’s song dives into the cultural phenomenon with a blend of mockery and affection, making it a unique and memorable addition to any compilation of football-related songs. This song provides a lighter, satirical perspective that complements the more earnest or thematic explorations found in other entries on the list.

“The Super Bowl Shuffle” by the Chicago Bears Shufflin’ Crew is an iconic piece of NFL and music history that emerged during the 1985 season, in which the Chicago Bears captured the hearts of football fans nationwide. Released before the team had even won the Super Bowl, the song is an audacious and charismatic rap performed by members of the team, showcasing their confidence and collective charisma.

The song was part of a charity project to raise funds for the Chicago Community Trust’s neediest families, demonstrating the team’s commitment to giving back to their community. It was a novel concept at the time—athletes performing a music video—blending sports, music, and philanthropy in an unprecedented manner. The video features players such as Walter Payton, Jim McMahon, and William “Refrigerator” Perry rapping about their playing prowess and the team’s dominating performance.

Produced with a catchy beat and a funk-inspired bass line, “The Super Bowl Shuffle” has a playful and engaging arrangement that contributed to its massive appeal, reaching number 41 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s remembered not just for its novelty, but also for how it captured the spirit and swagger of the 1985 Bears, a team celebrated for its powerful defense and vibrant personalities.

In the context of songs about football, “The Super Bowl Shuffle” stands out for its direct connection to an NFL team and its cultural impact. Unlike traditional songs by musicians, this song’s performance by the athletes themselves helped cement the 1985 Chicago Bears’ legacy in both sports and popular culture. It differs from other football-themed songs like Hank Williams Jr.’s “All My Rowdy Friends” by being both a pre-game hype song and a mid-season victory declaration, adding a unique layer to its significance in football music lore.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooT_uz–O2A

The Boys Of Fall – Kenny Chesney

“The Boys of Fall” by Kenny Chesney is a poignant tribute to high school football, capturing the essence of the game beyond the gridiron—it delves into the camaraderie, life lessons, and community spirit that football fosters. Released in 2010 on the album Hemingway’s Whiskey, this song resonates deeply with fans and players alike, reminding them of the youthful days of sportsmanship and dreams.

Produced by Buddy Cannon and Kenny Chesney, the song features a blend of country rock elements and heartfelt lyrics that evoke nostalgia and a deep connection to small-town America where football often serves as a cultural cornerstone. The production is polished, encapsulating Chesney’s signature style, which balances country sensibilities with mainstream appeal.

Lyrically, “The Boys of Fall” is rich with vivid imagery of football scenes— from the on-field action to the emotional pep talks. Chesney sings about the bonds formed between teammates and the communal pride that surges through the stands at high school football games. The song’s chorus, “When I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass/ I’m back in my helmet, cleats, and shoulder pads,” directly places the listener in the shoes of a player, evoking the sensory experiences that come with football season.

The music video further amplifies the song’s message by featuring footage of football games and commentary from famous NFL players and coaches, reinforcing the song’s homage to the sport and its impact on the players’ lives. This connection makes “The Boys of Fall” a beloved anthem for football fans, serving as a musical celebration of the sport’s role in shaping identities and communities.

In comparison to other songs on a list of best rock songs about football, “The Boys of Fall” stands out for its heartfelt approach and its focus on the personal growth and community bonds formed through high school football, making it a unique and cherished narrative within the genre.

Deacon Blues – Steely Dan

“Deacon Blues” is a song by Steely Dan from their 1977 album Aja, which has become one of the band’s most famous tracks. Written by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, the song’s lyrics tell the story of a disillusioned man who dreams of living a different life as a saxophone player named “Deacon Blues.” This character’s aspiration to “learn to work the saxophone” and “play just what I feel” contrasts his mundane existence with his ideal of a cool, artistic persona associated with jazz musicians.

Musically, “Deacon Blues” is a smooth blend of jazz and rock, reflecting Steely Dan’s signature sophisticated style. The song features a mellow, polished sound with complex chord changes and a prominent saxophone solo by Pete Christlieb, which adds to the jazzy feel that the lyrics idealize. The production, handled by Gary Katz, is meticulous, with every instrument—from the guitar to the keyboards—carefully arranged to contribute to the song’s laid-back yet intricate atmosphere.

“Deacon Blues” exemplifies Steely Dan’s ability to fuse cerebral lyrics with sleek, studio-perfected sounds. The song’s title reportedly refers to the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide, drawing a parallel between the underdog ethos of the Deacon and the winning spirit of the Crimson Tide. This ironic twist of finding solace and identity in a losing team encapsulates the song’s theme of finding personal meaning in aspiration, however unrealistic it may be.

The track’s appeal lies in its smooth melody and introspective lyrics, which have resonated with listeners since its release. It reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Steely Dan’s biggest hits. “Deacon Blues” remains a staple on classic rock radio and is celebrated for its artistic craftsmanship and the depth of its narrative, standing as a poignant expression of yearning for more out of life.

Read More: Steely Dan’s Best Song On Each Of Their Studio Albums

The Lonesome Kicker – Adam Sandler

“The Lonesome Kicker,” performed by Adam Sandler, offers a comedic yet poignant perspective on the often-overlooked role of a football kicker. Unlike the typical anthems or glorifying tunes about football heroes, Sandler’s song delves into the isolation and underappreciation faced by those specializing in field goals and extra points. Released as part of Sandler’s 1997 album What’s Your Name?, the song uses humor to highlight the kicker’s unique struggles within the team dynamic, making it a distinctive entry in the genre of sports-related music.

Recorded at various studios, including Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, the song features Sandler’s usual playful and narrative style, with instrumentation that supports the storytelling without overshadowing the lyrics. Produced by Brooks Arthur, a frequent collaborator of Sandler, the song layers simple acoustic guitar chords under Sandler’s vocal delivery, which mimics the downtrodden yet hopeful spirit of the kicker he portrays. The character, Andre Kristacovitchlalinski, Jr., reveals through his lament the loneliness of his position, both on the field and within the social hierarchies of the sport.

Lyrically, Sandler touches on the technical aspects and the physical risks kickers endure, such as being the last line of defense on kickoff returns, and the psychological pressure of scoring precise field goals. The song cleverly includes factual aspects of football, like the distance consideration for field goals and the historical shift of the goal posts, which adds a layer of authenticity while serving the comedic narrative. In contrast to fight songs or tracks that celebrate the more glamorous positions in football, “The Lonesome Kicker” uses satire to spotlight the unsung intricacies and the ironic lack of recognition faced by kickers, echoing a sentiment that might feel familiar in the more solitary pursuits within team sports.

This track stands out in discussions about football songs for its unique angle and comedic approach, setting it apart from other more traditional, celebratory football songs like “The Boys of Fall” by Kenny Chesney or even novelty team anthems. It serves as a reminder of the diverse roles that contribute to the sport’s drama, each with its own challenges and stories worth telling.

 

The “Monday Night Football Theme,” also known as “Heavy Action,” is one of the most recognizable pieces of music associated with sports broadcasting. Originally composed by Johnny Pearson in 1970, it wasn’t initially written for football; instead, it was part of the music library for KPM Music in the UK and was used for various television programs, including the BBC’s Superstars. However, its association with Monday Night Football (MNF) has made it an iconic symbol of American football since ABC started using it for MNF broadcasts in the mid-1970s.

The piece is characterized by its bold brass fanfare, a marching rhythm, and an overall grandiose feel that captures the excitement and spectacle of a prime-time NFL game. The music sets a dramatic tone that has become synonymous with the anticipation of watching live football under the lights, marking the start of something big and heightening the viewer’s experience.

Over the years, “Heavy Action” has been remixed and updated several times to keep it fresh while maintaining its core elements. Each version continues to serve as a powerful opener that energizes fans, creating an audio signature that, when heard, is immediately associated with the thrills of Monday Night Football. This theme has not just been a musical piece but a crucial part of the NFL’s branding on television, enduring through decades as a staple of sports broadcasting. Its impact is such that the opening notes alone are enough to signal the commencement of a night of high-stakes, high-action football, making it an essential part of NFL culture.

10 Best Songs About American Football article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

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  1. Howard Alperin September 10, 2024

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