Jim Cornelison, a Chicago legend known for his National Anthem performances, sang during the NFL playoff game between the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams.
Soldier Field was roaring with cheers and excitement as fans gathered for Sunday’s matchup.
Continuing the tradition of the National Anthem, Chicago’s own took the stage.
Known for his powerful tenor and dramatic delivery, his performance drew attention, though reactions were mixed.
In a video shared by the NFL on X, some viewers expressed criticism of his performance.
Jim Cornelison sings the National Anthem in Chicago ? pic.twitter.com/2KCzLilsFe
— NFL (@NFL) January 18, 2026“That wasn’t great,” a commenter mentioned.
“Horrible performance and I never even heard of this man!” one wrote.
One even questioned, “lol, why him?”
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
“Brought tears to my eyes in the very best way. With all the turmoil right now in our country, this rendition of Our National anthem was powerful. made me proud to be an American, and I could hear the great reaction and interaction from the crowd,” a commenter proudly said.
“The best rendition I've ever heard. Powerful. The way it should be sung,” a fan noted
“That’s how it’s done. Motivates every player, every true American. Gorgeous,” another added.
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.”
The classically trained dramatic tenor and opera singer is celebrated for delivering powerful versions of the national anthem, making him one of the legendary figures in 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.
Since then, his performances have become a cherished pregame ritual and signature moment for fans.
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.
In an interview with Blackhawk Up, he discussed his preparation for each performance, noting that he practices for a few minutes at home before making his way to the venue.
“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.”
As part of his preparation, Cornelison said he steers clear of “milk products or peanut butter” and “anything that can gum you up.”
“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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