Kaylah Walton
The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship is set to be an exceptional event, featuring a mix of live music, cherished traditions, and emotional tributes at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 20, 2025.
The entertainment before the game includes a fantastic lineup, headlined by Coco Jones, a Grammy-winning artist.
The standout moment will be Coco Jones singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Renowned for her rich voice and popular tracks like “ICU,” the 27-year-old Nashville native is making waves in the music scene.
With a Grammy for Best R&B Performance and multiple nominations, her journey solidifies her as an emerging star. Joined by Music Director Adam Blackstone, she is expected to give a memorable interpretation of the anthem that will touch many hearts.
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The anthem ceremony will feature a Joint Armed Forces Color Guard from all six branches of the U.S. military, and a grand American flag to be displayed, courtesy of Atlanta volunteers. As per CFP tradition, drummers from the bands of the competing schools will enhance the performance, cleverly blending patriotic elements with the spirit of college football.
An Evening Celebrating Legacy and Diversity
The event also holds special importance as the Spelman College Glee Club, in its 100th year, will sing “America the Beautiful.” Guided by Dr. Kevin Johnson, this choir has greatly influenced black choral music and inspired many young women.
Local students Johrgia Peaches and Alexander Charlot will perform in American Sign Language (ASL), emphasizing the event’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for everyone during the championship experience.
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dr. Bernice A. King, who is both Dr. King’s daughter and the CEO of The King Center, will honor her father’s commitment to peace and social justice by participating in a coin toss. The event will also highlight the bravery of Corporal (Ret.) Kyle Carpenter, a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his courageous services in Afghanistan.
The celebration will acknowledge educators through the CFP Foundation’s “Extra Yard for Teachers” program, honoring the 2024 Teachers of the Year from each state and territory across the U.S.
A Thrilling Pregame Show
Informing the crowd will be ESPN’s own Stormy Buonantony, who will lead the pregame entertainment with DJ Mal-Ski and the ensemble of six drummers from Clark Atlanta University’s Mighty Marching Panthers Drumline, fueling excitement ahead of the big game.
Starting at 7:30 p.m. ET, the pregame festivities will set the tone for an exhilarating evening as the game kicks off at 7:45 p.m. ET. This championship clash features No. 7 seed Notre Dame facing off against No. 8 seed Ohio State, promising to be a spectacular night at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
