The return of the iconic ESPN NHL theme song | NHL on ESPN

The return of the iconic ESPN NHL theme song | NHL on ESPN
Composer Bob Christianson tells the story of bringing back ESPN’s iconic theme song for the NHL that has resonated with fans for years.
#NHL #ESPN

[mattwilkinson]

As a child of the ‘90s, this theme brings back so many memories of watching hockey with my Dad. Gary Thorne had such an amazing voice for hockey too. I’m so glad you’ve brought back some old personalities like Sean McDonough, Barry Melrose, and Steve Levy among others, but I’m especially happy that you brought back this theme.

[OniJays]

As a hockey fan and a cello student I never thought I’d see the day… yet there I was.
Being a part of this project was a such a huge honor. Thank you ESPN, and let’s go Rangers!

[dknadeau]

As a kid born in 87 who played hockey my entire life, this theme brings back everything.

[puckberto]

It feels like being in 1998 at my parents' house. Yes, i'm crying.

[MattCProductions_]

This was so well done. I hope Gary Thorne can come back and call some games. I wasn't alive for much of ESPN's run in the 90's and 00's, but ESPN's coverage and Gary Thorne's voice really jumped out at me. I love watching highlights with him on the call; just a perfect broadcasting voice.

[charlesrocks]

Bob Christensen is an absolute legend. So glad to see him get recognition.

[MrBlazemaster]

The chills start at 5:08

Welcome back indeed old friend

[hexx.hockey]

I shed a tear, I'll be honest. Those Gary Thorne intros in the 90s are legendary

[repost]

This gave me goosebumps. Not a hockey fan but I imagine it's the same feeling that I get when I hear the Chicago Bulls home court intro with the laser show and all. That gets me riled up every time.

[Mathtron]

As someone who has recently fallen down a rabbit hole of old sports themes, I gotta say this is one of the best themes possibly of all time

[xSmootx]

I'm not a hockey fan, but this theme slaps. Would love to see a mini-doc feature like this for the supplemental theme for the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest which was also done by Bob Christianson, as well as a modern orchestral remake. Great stuff.

[RevolutionByNight]

God bless the return of the NHL to ESPN. Very well made vid!

[ericthayer]

This brought tears to my eyes! Music is such a powerful machine! It took me back so quickly to my youth and an obsessive love I once had for a great sport that has been neglected in the states on TV over the last 17 years!!

[MmaFan]

I get goosebumps EVERY TIME I hear the call of Kariya’s goal against the Devils in the Cup Finals!

[Streetkillz]

I love the way the first player you see in the video is OVI, and the last player you see is Crosby. Brining front and center the 2 superstars that were most effected by the move away from ESPN.

Had the NHL returned to ESPN following the lockout these are the players who would have been front and center For 15+ years. One of if not the greatest player rivalries in team sports history.

It's fitting that the players who bookend this are those two.

[frankakerley]

Absolute chills up and down my spine. Seeing all the clips from the 90s and early 00's then cascading into the modern era... absolutely wonderful and masterfully done by ESPN.

[TimMcClure]

Just caught this on the broadcast, amazing timing having it teed up on YouTube so people like me can find a link to the whole bit to share

[MarcusB-qrhk]

I’m so pumped for this season! Welcome back

#NHLonESPN

[dcbandnerd]

I didn't grow up a hockey fan - came to the game while in college - but this theme was always *the* musical icon for the NHL. I'm so glad it's back in use.

[WelcomeToTheMadKingdom]

Just imagine how hard this is gonna hit during the Playoffs, and ESPECIALLY During the Stanley Cup Finals.