Country Star Craig Campbell to Kick Off Monday Night Football with National Anthem Performance
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Few moments hold as much significance for country music artist Craig Campbell as performing “The Star Spangled Banner,” and he is set to deliver that powerful moment on one of the biggest stages in sports. The Grindstone Recordings artist will sing the National Anthem on Monday, December 15, 2025, before the highly anticipated match-up between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Miami Dolphins at Acrisure Stadium. Kickoff for the game is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. EST, and the action will be broadcast live on ABC and ESPN.
For Campbell, this performance is more than just a gig; it is a profound honor that aligns with his core values.
“God, family, and country are the top three priorities in my life, and singing our National Anthem is an incredible honor,” said Craig. “What a great way to wrap up an amazing year on Monday Night Football!”
A Triumphant Year of Milestones
Campbell’s appearance on Monday Night Football is a fitting capstone to an already remarkable year defined by professional achievement and dedicated philanthropy.
Chart Success and Streaming Milestones
The year began with the release of his single, “Missing You.” This track recently hit the national country chart, marking Campbell’s first charted release since launching his independent label, Grindstone Recordings, in 2020. The single has resonated deeply with fans, already surpassing 16 million streams, a testament to the artist’s enduring connection with his audience. Campbell plans to continue promoting “Missing You” well into 2026.
Dedication to the Kenny Campbell Foundation
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Campbell’s philanthropic efforts remained a central focus. His commitment to the Kenny Campbell Foundation—named in honor of his father—resulted in significant funds raised for a crucial cause.
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11th Annual Celebrity Cornhole Challenge: In June, the annual event raised an impressive $30,000 for the Foundation.
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Inaugural Benefit Concert: The following month, Campbell organized the first-ever Kenny Campbell Foundation Benefit Concert at the historic Ryman Auditorium. The event featured a stellar lineup, including Bradley Gaskin, Hailey Benedict, Preslee Campbell, Tayler Holder, Mattie Pruitt, Michael Ray, Jason Sturgeon, and Bryan White, adding another $10,000 to the Foundation’s efforts.
Expanding the Grindstone Empire
The entrepreneurial spirit of Craig and his wife, Mindy, saw the successful expansion of their unique business venture last month. They opened a second location of their popular Grindstone Cowboy coffee shop, restaurant, and music venue. The new venue, located in downtown Shelbyville, Tennessee, is a massive, revitalized 12,000-square-foot space. It features a craft coffee bar, a full-service restaurant, a performance venue, a speakeasy, and plans for a future rooftop terrace, solidifying the Campbell family’s commitment to community and creative space.
Wrapping Up the Tour
Craig Campbell is set to officially wrap up his 2025 touring schedule by participating in the Acoustic Jam 2025 at the Louisville Palace tonight in Kentucky. He will share the stage with a strong lineup that includes Chris Janson, Kameron Marlow, The Band Perry, Mackenzie Carpenter, and more.
Campbell’s year has been a perfect balance of artistic independence, chart success, giving back, and entrepreneurial growth. His upcoming National Anthem performance on Monday Night Football will be a powerful and prideful moment, showcasing a small-town performer who remains deeply committed to faith, family, and country.