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From Bar Napkin to NCAA Glory
7 Apr
Summary
- A song written on napkins in 1986 became March Madness anthem.
- The song was almost used for the Super Bowl before March Madness.
- It is the final song recorded by Luther Vandross.
David Barrett's journey to creating the March Madness anthem, "One Shining Moment," began unexpectedly in a Michigan bar in 1986. Inspired by a Larry Bird game and a desire to impress a waitress, Barrett scribbled lyrics on a cocktail napkin. These words evolved into the song that has soundtracked college basketball championships for nearly four decades, first airing in 1987 after a thrilling NCAA final.
The song's path to basketball was almost different. CBS Sports initially considered using it for Super Bowl XXI, but a scheduling conflict prevented its airing. The opportunity shifted to March Madness, perfectly aligning the song with its basketball theme. This marked a pivotal moment, solidifying its future place in sports history.
Over the years, "One Shining Moment" has been performed by various artists, including the original writer, Teddy Pendergrass, and Luther Vandross. Notably, Vandross's rendition in 2002 became his final recorded song before a stroke impacted his voice, adding another layer to the ballad's poignant history.
Today, the production of the "One Shining Moment" montage is a complex, on-site operation during the Final Four. Teams work meticulously in editing trucks, ensuring seamless integration of game highlights with the song, a testament to the enduring spirit of its creation. Barrett himself remains connected, attending games and appreciating the song's continued impact.
