In 2018, country music powerhouse Carrie Underwood joined forces with hip-hop star Ludacris to create a powerful anthem titled “The Champion”. This wasn’t your typical country duet, however. The song was commissioned by NBC to serve as the theme song for both the 2018 Winter Olympics and Super Bowl LII, a strategic choice that reflected the song’s core themes.
Overcoming Obstacles: The heart of “The Champion” lies in its message of perseverance and overcoming adversity. The lyrics speak of facing down challenges, pushing through doubt, and ultimately emerging victorious. This resonated perfectly with the spirit of both the Olympics and the Super Bowl, where athletes dedicate themselves to achieving greatness despite immense physical and mental hurdles.
Unity Through Genre-Bending: The collaboration between Underwood and Ludacris was a stroke of brilliance. Underwood’s soaring vocals and signature country twang blend seamlessly with Ludacris’s powerful rap verses. This unexpected pairing not only created a unique sonic experience but also symbolized the unifying power of competition and the shared pursuit of excellence that transcends genre boundaries.
Beyond the Games: While “The Champion” was undoubtedly crafted for a specific sporting context, its message has universal appeal. The song resonates with anyone who has faced setbacks in life, reminding them of the inner strength they possess to rise above challenges and achieve their goals.
A Legacy of Inspiration:“The Champion” continues to be a popular choice for motivational playlists and sporting events. Its uplifting message and powerful vocals serve as a reminder that the path to becoming a champion is paved with hard work, resilience, and the unwavering belief in oneself.
I’ll be the last one standing Two hands in the air, I’m a champion You’ll be looking up at me when it’s over I live for the battle, I’m a soldier, yeah I’m a fighter like Rocky Put your flag on your back like Ali Yeah, I’m the greatest, I’m stronger Paid my dues, can’t lose, I’ma own ya, ay
I’ve been working my whole life And now it’s do or die
I am invincible, unbreakable Unstoppable, unshakable They knock me down, I get up again I am the champion, you’re gon’ know my name You can’t hurt me now, I can’t feel the pain I was made for this, yeah, I was born to win I am the champion
When they write my story They gonna say that I did it for the glory But don’t think that I did it for the fame, yeah I did it for the love of the game, yeah And this is my chance I’m taking All them old records, I’m breaking All you people watching on the TV You go ahead and put your bets on me, ay
I’ve been waiting my whole life To see my name in lights
I am invincible, unbreakable Unstoppable, unshakable They knock me down, I get up again I am the champion, you’re gon’ know my name You can’t hurt me now, I can’t feel the pain I was made for this, yeah, I was born to win I am the champion, oh-oh
Born champion, Luda The C is for the courage I possess through the trauma (yeah) H is for the hurt, but it’s all for the honor A is for my attitude working through the patience (hey) Money comes and goes, so the M is for motivation
Gotta stay consistent, the P is for persevere The I is for integrity, innovative career (career) The O is optimistic, open and never shut And the N is necessary ’cause I’m never givin’ up
See, they ask me how I did it, I just did it from the heart Crushin’ the competition, been doing it from the start They say that every champion is all about his principles Carrie
I am invincible, unbreakable Unstoppable, unshakable They knock me down, I get up again I am the champion, you’re gon’ know my name You can’t hurt me now, I can’t feel the pain I was made for this, yeah, I was born to win I am the champion
I’m the champion, yeah, surpassed all rivals It’s all about who wants it the most I am the champion Fight for what we believe in That’s what champions are made of I am the champion (yeah, champion)
