The History of 'Monday Night Football' Theme Songs (1970-2024)

The Early Years (1970-1989)

The first Monday Night Football theme song was "Heavy Action" by The Johnny Mann Singers. It was used from 1970 to 1974. The song was a fast-paced, upbeat instrumental that perfectly captured the excitement of the game.

In 1974, the theme song was changed to "The Ballad of Monday Night Football" by Hank Williams Jr. The song was a more traditional country ballad that celebrated the tradition of Monday Night Football.

In 1989, the theme song was changed again to "Sirius" by The Alan Parsons Project. The song was a more modern, electronic instrumental that gave the show a more contemporary feel.

The Modern Era (1990-Present)

In 1990, the theme song was changed to "The Power of Love" by Huey Lewis and the News. The song was a popular hit at the time and helped to attract a new generation of viewers to Monday Night Football.

In 1994, the theme song was changed to "Get Ready for This" by 2 Unlimited. The song was a high-energy dance track that helped to pump up the crowd and get them ready for the game.

In 1998, the theme song was changed to "Who Let the Dogs Out?" by the Baha Men. The song was a catchy, upbeat tune that became a huge hit and helped to make Monday Night Football even more popular.

In 2006, the theme song was changed to "Waiting All Day for Sunday Night" by Carrie Underwood. The song was a more traditional country ballad that celebrated the anticipation of Monday Night Football.

In 2012, the theme song was changed to "Kickstart My Heart" by Motley Crue. The song was a high-energy rock anthem that helped to get the crowd pumped up for the game.

In 2018, the theme song was changed to "The Greatest Show" by Hugh Jackman. The song was a powerful, uplifting ballad that celebrated the tradition of Monday Night Football.

In 2024, the theme song was changed to "Monday Night Football" by Metallica. The song is a heavy metal anthem that perfectly captures the excitement and intensity of the game.