Who sang national anthem at Bears game on January 18, 2026? The answer was Jim Cornelison, the renowned vocalist whose powerful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” filled Soldier Field moments before the Chicago Bears faced the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round. His performance became one of the most talked-about pregame moments of the night, setting an emotional tone for players and fans alike.
As the stadium lights glowed against a winter sky and the crowd packed every seat, Cornelison stepped forward to deliver the anthem with the intensity and precision that have made him a fixture at major sporting events. The performance was not just ceremonial. It was a defining part of the playoff atmosphere, capturing the spirit of a city and the magnitude of the moment.
A Playoff Stage Demands a Powerful Voice
Playoff games carry a different kind of weight. Every detail feels amplified, from player introductions to the opening kickoff. The national anthem, often the final moment of stillness before competition begins, becomes a shared experience for tens of thousands in attendance and millions watching across the country.
On this January evening, the Bears were playing one of their most important home games in years. The crowd energy was already high, yet it rose even more as Cornelison began to sing. His strong tenor cut through the cold air, reaching every corner of Soldier Field. Fans stood, many with hands over their hearts, some quietly singing along.
The final sustained note drew a roar of approval. Applause rolled through the stadium, and players on both sidelines acknowledged the moment before turning their focus to the game ahead.
Who Is Jim Cornelison?
Jim Cornelison is widely recognized as one of the most respected anthem performers in American sports. His career spans decades, and his voice has become closely associated with major events that demand both technical skill and emotional depth.
In Chicago, Cornelison is especially well known. His long-standing connection to the city’s sports scene has made him a familiar presence at high-profile games, ceremonies, and championship moments. When organizers look for a singer who can rise to the occasion, his name often tops the list.
Key elements of his reputation include:
- A commanding vocal range suited for large outdoor venues
- Consistent performances at playoff and championship events
- A traditional yet stirring style that resonates with broad audiences
- A strong connection with Chicago sports fans
These qualities made him an ideal choice to perform before a nationally televised Bears playoff game.
The Moment at Soldier Field
As kickoff approached, the stadium grew quiet. The usual pregame noise gave way to respectful silence. Cornelison stood at midfield, microphone in hand, with the American flag displayed prominently.
From the opening line, the tone was clear. His delivery balanced control and emotion, honoring the anthem’s history while giving it the dramatic presence suited to a postseason contest. Each verse built toward a powerful conclusion, and the crowd responded with increasing volume.
When the last note faded, the reaction was immediate:
- Loud applause from all sections of the stadium
- Cheers that reflected both appreciation and excitement
- A visible emotional response from many in the crowd
The anthem served as a bridge between ceremony and competition, marking the official start of a night that carried major implications for the Bears’ season.
Why the Anthem Matters in Big Games
The national anthem is a standard part of every NFL game, yet its impact grows in the postseason. With the stakes higher, the moment takes on added meaning. It becomes a pause where fans, players, and coaches share a collective breath before the intensity begins.
In playoff settings, the anthem often:
- Reinforces a sense of unity among thousands of people
- Honors tradition in front of a national audience
- Adds emotional gravity to the occasion
- Signals that the game is more than just another week on the schedule
Cornelison’s performance at the Bears game fulfilled all of these roles. It reminded everyone present that this was not an ordinary Sunday, but a crucial chapter in the team’s pursuit of postseason success.
A Familiar Voice for Chicago Fans
For many in the crowd, Cornelison’s voice was instantly recognizable. Over the years, he has become part of the soundtrack of Chicago sports, particularly in moments when emotion runs high and expectations are great.
His association with major events has created a sense of continuity. When fans hear him perform, they often recall other memorable nights, dramatic wins, and historic milestones. That familiarity adds another layer of meaning to his appearances.
At Soldier Field, this connection was clear. The crowd’s response suggested more than polite appreciation. It reflected a bond between performer and audience built over years of shared experiences.
National Attention and Viewer Response
Because the Bears-Rams game was broadcast nationwide, millions of viewers also heard Cornelison’s rendition. Social media platforms quickly filled with comments from fans across the country, many praising the clarity and strength of his voice.
Common reactions included:
- Recognition of the anthem as one of the standout pregame moments
- Compliments on the traditional, respectful style of the performance
- Remarks about how the anthem heightened the sense of occasion
For viewers who may not have been familiar with Cornelison, the playoff stage introduced them to a singer who has long been part of Chicago’s sports culture.
The Role of Tradition in the NFL
The NFL places great emphasis on tradition, especially during the postseason. From the presentation of team colors to the playing of the anthem, every element is designed to reflect the history and significance of the league.
Selecting an experienced, respected singer for the national anthem is part of that tradition. It ensures the moment is handled with the care and quality it deserves. Cornelison’s performance fit seamlessly into this framework, blending respect for the anthem with the energy of a playoff crowd.
Why Fans Keep Asking the Question
Search interest in who sang national anthem at Bears game continues because the performance stood out. In a season filled with dramatic plays and intense competition, certain moments capture attention for different reasons. The anthem, delivered on a major stage by a well-known voice, became one of those moments.
People look for this information because:
- The game attracted a large national audience
- The singer delivered a memorable performance
- The anthem is a key ceremonial element of playoff football
- Fans enjoy learning more about the voices behind these iconic moments
For many, knowing who performed adds context to their memory of the game.
A Performance That Matched the Moment
Every playoff game creates its own story. Some chapters are written by players making big plays. Others are shaped by the atmosphere, the crowd, and the traditions that surround the sport. The national anthem, when delivered with power and respect, becomes part of that story.
Jim Cornelison’s rendition at Soldier Field was one of those defining elements. It did not overshadow the game itself, yet it framed the evening with a sense of importance and pride.
As the Bears took the field and the crowd roared, the anthem still echoed in the background of the experience. It was a reminder of the shared emotion that brings fans together, whether in the stadium or watching from home.
In the end, the question who sang national anthem at Bears game has a clear answer. It was Jim Cornelison, and his voice helped set the stage for one of the most significant nights of Chicago’s 2026 season.
What did you think of the national anthem before the Bears playoff game? Share your thoughts and stay connected for more moments that define Chicago football.