Robin Zander Performs National Anthem at Commanders-Buccaneers Wild Card Game
January 12, 2025
In a thrilling prelude to the NFC Wild Card matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Washington Commanders, Robin Zander, the iconic lead singer of Cheap Trick, delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
Zander, renowned for classic hits like “I Want You to Want Me” and “Surrender,” has been a pivotal figure in rock music since the mid-1970s. His dynamic tenor voice and charismatic stage presence have earned him a lasting legacy in the music industry. Beyond his musical achievements, Zander has deep ties to the Tampa Bay area, having settled in Safety Harbor in the early 1990s after meeting his wife there.
This performance marked Zander’s second time singing the national anthem at a Buccaneers game. He previously took the honor on Christmas Eve in 2023, ahead of a decisive 30-12 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars—a win that played a pivotal role in the Buccaneers clinching the NFC South title that season.
Fans and attendees praised Zander’s powerful delivery, noting that his voice remains as compelling as ever at 71. His performance added a layer of excitement and local pride to the playoff atmosphere, blending the worlds of rock ‘n’ roll and football in a uniquely Tampa Bay fashion.
As the Buccaneers and Commanders clashed on the field, Zander’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” set a patriotic tone for the high-stakes game, reminding fans of the unifying power of music and sports.
For those who missed the live performance, here’s a video capturing Robin Zander’s national anthem rendition: