Why is Zac Brown Band performing before Braves-Guardians 'Sunday Night Baseball' game

With "Sunday Night Baseball" moving to NBC for the 2026 season, a new show opener has been added. This one features the Grammy-winning Zac Brown Band. 

The band was filmed at American Family Field, the Milwaukee Brewers' home park, and will be used every weekend this season, beginning this Sunday, April 12. 

The group's sound is a mix of country and rock, with hit songs including "Chicken Fried" and "Colder Weather." In this particular open, the group is leaning into the rock side to reimagine a classic song.

"Nothing is more American than baseball. Bringing energy and people together, which is exactly what we try to capture in our music," Zac Brown told NBC Sports. 

MORE: How the Zac Brown band was responsible for the anthem of March Madness

Why is the Zac Brown Band performing before Braves vs. Guardians? 

NBC was looking for a new show to open in their first season, hosting "Sunday Night Baseball", especially with the presence of music in other spheres of professional sports. 

The NFL has seen Carrie Underwood as its voice since 2013. In the NBA, NBC Sports had Lenny Kravitz performing the show open. Next stop? The Zac Brown Band and Major League Baseball. 

This decision about a musical open, featuring the Zac Brown Band, is part of the larger Sunday Night Baseball rebranding process since NBC took over for ESPN ahead of the 2026 season. 

MORE: Who will be playing on each week of Sunday Night Baseball?

What time is the Zac Brown Band performing? 

The Zac Brown Band's opening theme song will be played at the start of every Sunday Night Baseball broadcast of the season.

These games start every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m. ET through the end of May, and vary slightly in start time afterward.