Soldier Field was roaring with cheers and excitement as fans gathered for Sunday’s matchup.
Known for his powerful tenor and dramatic delivery, his performance drew attention, though reactions were mixed.
Jim Cornelison sings the National Anthem in Chicago ? pic.twitter.com/2KCzLilsFe
— NFL (@NFL) January 18, 2026“Horrible performance and I never even heard of this man!” one wrote.
The same goes for another X user who said, “Absolutely pitiful performance of the national anthem. This guy should never be allowed to sing again.”
Majority Praise Jim Cornelison’s Powerful Rendition of ‘Star Spangled Banner'
While a few viewers voiced negative opinions, the majority celebrated the 61-year-old’s performance, with others declaring it the finest rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Jim Cornelison sings the national anthem during pre-game ceremonies at the Discover NHL Winter Classic between the St. Louis Blues and the Chicago Blackhawks at Wrigley Field on December 31, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images
“The best rendition I've ever heard. Powerful. The way it should be sung,” a fan noted
A fan applauded the Bears’ decision to feature Cornelison, calling it a “smart move,” noting, “Anytime the Blackhawks bring this guy out, it’s electric! Smart move by Chicago.”
One of his most beloved appearances came during the Chicago Blackhawks’ 2008-2009 NHL season, when he became the team’s full-time anthem singer.
The legendary singer isn’t new to the Chicago Bears’ stage as he previously performed the National Anthem during the 2010-2011 season, as well as at the 2019 and 2025 season openers.
“I’ll grab a bite in the press lounge and then go see Frank, the organist, to make sure we are on the same page,” he added. “Then I head down so that I’m in the penalty box with 6-8 minutes to go. I vocalize some then until I step out on the carpet to sing. I often have to sing into the glass just to hear myself.”
“I’m not a superstitious guy. I just try to keep the whole process up to the actual singing as calm as possible,” he furthered.
Related: Former NFL Players Perform National Anthem Before NY Giants Game
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