"Roundball Rock" Returns to NBC with NBA Broadcasts
Get ready for a wave of nostalgia! John Tesh’s iconic "Roundball Rock," the anthem that defined NBA on NBC broadcasts from 1990 to 2002, is officially making a comeback. NBC announced that the beloved theme song will be returning to its airwaves next season as part of the network’s renewed partnership with the NBA.
The announcement was made during NBC’s coverage of the Kentucky Derby, adding a touch of unexpected sports synergy to the horse racing event. NBC Sports president Rick Cordella expressed his enthusiasm for the return of the iconic tune in a news release, highlighting its significance in sports history.
"It’s a thrill to announce that ‘Roundball Rock’ is coming home," Cordella stated. " ‘Roundball Rock’ is one of the greatest pieces of theme music in sports history. Hearing it immediately conjures images of NBC Sports’ coverage of one of the golden ages of the NBA, from Magic (Johnson) to Michael (Jordan) to Kobe (Bryant) and many others."
The revival of "Roundball Rock" is not only a sentimental move but also a strategic one for NBC. The song’s enduring popularity and its association with a golden era of basketball are expected to resonate with viewers, both old and new. The network aims to leverage the nostalgic power of the theme song to create excitement and anticipation for its upcoming NBA coverage.
Cordella also emphasized the collaborative spirit that brought "Roundball Rock" back to NBC. "It was a pleasure working with John Tesh to bring ‘Roundball Rock’ back to NBC, and we’re equally excited to hear its debut on Peacock. We couldn’t imagine beginning our coverage any other way," he said. The mention of Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, suggests that "Roundball Rock" will not only be featured during traditional television broadcasts but also integrated into the network’s digital platforms.
John Tesh, the composer of the iconic theme song, also shared his excitement about the reunion. "I’m truly honored to be back with my friends at NBC Sports," Tesh said. "From our first meeting, Rick Cordella had a powerful vision for bringing ‘Roundball Rock’ back to its one true home. Along with millions of other fans, I’ll be front row center for the epic launch in the fall."
The story behind "Roundball Rock" is as captivating as the song itself. Tesh revealed that the melody came to him in the middle of the night. Without a recorder readily available, he resorted to leaving himself a voicemail of him singing the song a cappella to ensure he wouldn’t forget it. That late-night inspiration ultimately became one of the most recognizable and beloved theme songs in sports broadcasting history.
The return of "Roundball Rock" marks a significant moment for both NBC and the NBA. For NBC, it represents a strategic move to recapture the glory days of its NBA coverage. The network hopes that the theme song will evoke feelings of nostalgia and excitement among viewers, drawing them in to watch the games.
For the NBA, the return of "Roundball Rock" is a nod to its own rich history. The song is inextricably linked to a period when the league was dominated by legendary players like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant. By bringing back the theme song, the NBA is acknowledging its past and celebrating the legacy of these iconic players.
The new TV deal between the NBA and NBC signifies a renewed commitment to basketball broadcasting. The partnership aims to deliver high-quality coverage of the league’s games, featuring compelling storytelling and expert analysis. The return of "Roundball Rock" is just one element of this broader strategy.
The impact of "Roundball Rock" extends beyond its association with the NBA. The song has become a cultural phenomenon, recognized and enjoyed by people who may not even be avid basketball fans. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a popular choice for sporting events and celebrations of all kinds.
As NBC prepares to resume its NBA broadcasts next season, the return of "Roundball Rock" promises to be a highlight for viewers. The song’s familiar sounds will transport fans back to a golden era of basketball, while also creating a sense of excitement for the future of the league. The combination of nostalgia and anticipation is sure to make NBC’s NBA coverage a must-watch event.
The reintroduction of "Roundball Rock" to NBC’s NBA broadcasts embodies more than just a simple return of a catchy tune; it signifies the rekindling of a cherished relationship between the network, the league, and its fans. It’s a strategic move to tap into the power of nostalgia, reminding viewers of the unforgettable moments and iconic players that defined the NBA’s golden age.
By bringing back the theme song, NBC is essentially saying, "We remember what made our NBA coverage special, and we’re committed to bringing that magic back." This commitment is likely to resonate with long-time NBA fans who grew up associating "Roundball Rock" with thrilling games, buzzer-beaters, and the unforgettable performances of legends like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.
The song’s debut on Peacock is a nod to the evolving media landscape, emphasizing the importance of reaching audiences through digital platforms. By making "Roundball Rock" available on its streaming service, NBC is ensuring that the theme song reaches a younger generation of fans who may not be as familiar with its history.
John Tesh’s anecdote about creating the song in the middle of the night highlights the element of serendipity involved in its creation. The fact that he had to leave himself a voicemail to remember the melody underscores the spontaneous and almost miraculous nature of artistic inspiration.
In conclusion, the return of "Roundball Rock" to NBC’s NBA broadcasts is a multifaceted event. It’s a strategic business decision, a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and a celebration of the NBA’s rich history. The song’s enduring popularity and its association with a golden era of basketball make it the perfect anthem to usher in a new chapter of NBA coverage on NBC. Get ready to tap your feet and relive the excitement as "Roundball Rock" once again fills the airwaves during NBA games.
