John Tesh received a life-changing message from himself on his answering machine in 1989, proposing the NBA theme that would become “Roundball Rock.” The song became the iconic theme for the NBA on NBC from 1990 to 2002 and is set to return in 2025 as part of a new media rights deal between NBC and the NBA. Tesh, a seasoned musician, composed the theme after a revelation in the middle of the night, using a mix of instruments to capture the spirit of basketball. The theme premiered during an NBA game in 1990 and quickly gained popularity among fans.
After its initial run, “Roundball Rock” continued to be celebrated for its nostalgic value, even being parodied on “Saturday Night Live” in 2013. Despite being temporarily used for college basketball broadcasts, fans demanded its return to NBA coverage. Recently, NBC reached out to Tesh to discuss the use of the theme for future basketball broadcasts. Tesh, along with a larger orchestra, re-recorded the theme in Nashville to prepare for the potential return.
The journey of “Roundball Rock” from an answering machine message to a beloved basketball theme has been a remarkable one for Tesh. The song has cemented its place in NBA history, accompanying some of the league’s most iconic moments. Tesh’s dedication to preserving the original composition showcases his commitment to maintaining the magic of that one fateful cassette tape message that changed his life.
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