The Evolution of Sky Sports’ Premier League Intro Songs
Sky Sports has long been known for its iconic and often unforgettable Premier League intro songs, each one capturing the spirit of the era it represented. Over the years, these tracks have become part of the fabric of English football broadcasting, with some becoming legendary while others faded into obscurity. Now, as the five-year reign of Celeste’s Stop This Flame comes to an end, fans are left wondering where this particular track stands among the best ever used by Sky Sports.
The new theme for the 2025-26 season will be an exclusively remixed version of Kasabian’s G.O.A.T, a choice that signals a shift in tone and style. While the original song was not included immediately due to ongoing production work, it is expected to make a strong impression when it finally debuts.
A Look Back at Some Notable Tracks
Over the decades, Sky Sports has selected a variety of tracks that have defined different eras of Premier League coverage. From high-energy anthems to more subdued ballads, each song tells a story about the time it was used. Here are some of the most memorable (and some less so) selections from the past:
13. Ford Generic Guitar Track (2003-04)
This track remains a mystery, with no clear artist or track ID found. It appears to be an original composition, likely created specifically for Sky Sports. Despite its energetic vibe, it feels out of place and lacks the cultural impact of other themes.
12. Ronan Keating – Lovin’ Each Day (2001-02)
A softer, more mellow track, this one didn’t last long on the list. Its breezy tone made it a good fit for family audiences, but it was ultimately too forgettable to make a lasting impression.
11. Labrinth – Something’s Got to Give (2019-20)
This track was short-lived and largely unremarkable. Though it was used for an entire season, many viewers couldn’t recall hearing it before, making it one of the least memorable entries on this list.
10. Dario G – Carnaval de Paris (2002-03)
While it had a festive feel, this track was clearly tied to the 1998 World Cup rather than the Premier League. Its upbeat tempo didn’t quite match the intensity of a typical weekend match, leading to its quick replacement.
9. Tom Grennan – Found What I’ve Been Looking For (2017-19)
This track was catchy but lacked the depth needed to stand out. Its late 2010s vocal style felt somewhat forced, and it failed to resonate with fans over multiple seasons.
8. Sigma – Higher (ft. Labrinth) (2015-17)
This was a product of its time, reflecting the mid-2010s music scene. While it had a strong hook, it never fully captured the essence of the Premier League, despite being used for two seasons.
7. Andrea Johnson – Glorious (2000-01)
This track managed to capture the mood of the early 2000s, blending pop with orchestral elements. It was a nostalgic choice that worked well with the era's footballing landscape.
6. Celeste – Stop This Flame (2020-25)
Celebrated for its powerful vocals and cinematic feel, this track became synonymous with the Premier League during its five-year run. However, as the era came to an end, fans were eager for something new.
5. Tinie Tempah – Written In The Stars (ft. Eric Turner) (2011-15)
This was a defining track of the Barclays era, capturing the excitement of the Premier League during a golden age. Despite its association with some of the league's biggest names, the track itself was overshadowed by its commercial success.
4. Fatboy Slim – Right Here, Right Now (1997-00)
This track was a staple of the late 90s and early 2000s. It perfectly encapsulated the energy of the time, though it was occasionally overshadowed by more recognizable hits.
3. ‘Here We Go’ Song (1992-97)
An early classic, this track helped establish Sky Sports as a major force in football broadcasting. Though it may not be as familiar to younger fans, it played a crucial role in shaping the network’s identity.
2. Kasabian – Club Foot (2009-11)
This track was a hit when it first came out and remained relevant for several years. Its distinctive bass riff and energetic vibe made it a perfect fit for Sky Sports' hype machine.
1. Moloko – Time is Now (2004-2009)
This track is often considered the quintessential Sky Sports intro. Its iconic opening line, “The time is…now,” became synonymous with the Premier League. It perfectly captured the atmosphere of a Sunday afternoon match, making it a timeless choice.
Final Thoughts
As Sky Sports moves forward with a new theme for the 2025-26 season, it's clear that the legacy of these intro songs will continue to shape the way fans experience the Premier League. Whether it's a nostalgic favorite or a fresh new sound, each track has played a role in defining the broadcast of English football.