Cody Simpson ready to tackle the Australian Anthem at the NFL game
The roar of the crowd is about to be matched only by the anticipation, as singer-songwriter Cody Simpson prepares to perform the Australian national anthem before history is made on Australian soil.
This week, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will host a landmark event: Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game, featuring the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers. But before the football action begins, the stage is set for a cultural spectacle, with Simpson stepping up to perform the “Advance Australia Fair.”
While the nerves are definitely present—the venue is described as “pretty daunting place when it’s full”—Simpson remains absolutely stoked. With over 100,000 sports fans expected to tune in, he is set to warm up the atmosphere for what promises to be a unique intersection of American and Australian sports culture.
Simpson’s excitement is rooted in his own background, having moved to Australia when he was just thirteen and signed with the team. He views the opportunity as a fantastic experience, noting that it is cool to be part of the inaugural NFL game on Australian ground.
This is not Simpson’s first time sharing a moment of national significance on such a grand stage. He has a rich history of performing anthems at major sporting events, including the AFL Grand Final in 2024, the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse in 2022, and the Australia Day NBA match between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
With a philosophy of keeping things simple and authentic, Simpson is ready for the moment, telling listeners, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Melbourne, long celebrated as Australia’s sports capital, is a city steeped in sporting history, hosting everything from the Olympics to the famous Melbourne Cup. The arrival of the NFL to this vibrant environment is already generating buzz, raising the question of how American football will integrate with Australia’s deep love for brawny ball sports.
Adding to the entertainment lineup, Jonas Brothers are locked in for the half-time show, bringing their pop energy to the stadium. Simpson admitted that while the brothers have a bigger stage, he is thrilled to share his contribution to this historic day.
Cody Simpson’s impressive credentials extend beyond music. As a pop artist, he has achieved five titles on the Billboard 200, including a top 10 appearance with 2013’s Surfers Paradise. Furthermore, he is an accomplished athlete, having earned Commonwealth Games gold in 2022 as part of the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay, demonstrating his versatility and talent.
The kick-off for the NFL Melbourne Game is scheduled for 8:35 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, promising an evening where global entertainment meets national sporting rivalry.
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