The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship promises an unforgettable evening, blending music, tradition, and heartfelt tributes at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Monday, January 20, 2025.
The pregame entertainment lineup is as star-studded as the teams on the field, with Grammy-winning artist Coco Jones headlining the festivities.
The highlight of the pregame festivities will be Coco Jones‘ performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Known for her soulful voice and chart-topping hits like “ICU,” the 27-year-old singer-songwriter from Nashville has become a force in the music industry.
Her accolades include a Grammy for Best R&B Performance and nominations across major awards shows, solidifying her as a breakout star. Accompanied by Music Director Adam Blackstone, Jones is set to deliver a moving rendition of the national anthem that will resonate with millions.
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The anthem ceremony will include a Joint Armed Forces Color Guard, representing all six branches of the U.S. military, and a massive American flag unfurled by volunteers from Atlanta. In keeping with CFP tradition, drummers from the participating team bands will add a collegiate touch to the performance, merging patriotic themes with the energy of college football.
A Night Honoring Legacy and Inclusivity
Adding to the evening’s significance, the Spelman College Glee Club, celebrating its 100th anniversary, will perform “America the Beautiful.” The choir, under the direction of Dr. Kevin Johnson, has long been a beacon of black choral music and inspiration for young women.
Inclusivity takes center stage with performances in American Sign Language (ASL) by local students Johrgia Peaches and Alexander Charlot. Their contributions reflect the CFP’s dedication to ensuring everyone can experience the magic of the championship.
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On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of Dr. King and CEO of The King Center, will participate in the coin toss, honoring her father’s legacy of peace and social justice. The evening will also recognize Medal of Honor recipient Corporal (Ret.) Kyle Carpenter for his heroic actions in Afghanistan.
Educators will be celebrated through the CFP Foundation’s “Extra Yard for Teachers” initiative, with 2024 Teachers of the Year from every U.S. state and territory honored on the field.
An Electrifying Pregame Atmosphere
ESPN reporter Stormy Buonantony will host the in-stadium festivities alongside DJ Mal-Ski and six drummers from Clark Atlanta University’s Mighty Marching Panthers Drumline. Their dynamic collaboration will energize the crowd, setting the stage for the game.
With pregame festivities starting at 7:30 p.m. ET and kickoff scheduled for 7:45 p.m. ET, the night will celebrate the best of football, music, and American heritage. Featuring No. 7 seed Notre Dame and No. 8 seed Ohio State, this championship showdown will cap an unforgettable evening at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.