A Chance Encounter and a Basketball Legend
The anthem synonymous with the NCAA tournament, "One Shining Moment," owes its existence to an unlikely mix of circumstances: a beautiful waitress, a socially awkward moment, and the peak performance of NBA legend Larry Bird. In the spring of 1986, folk singer David Barrett was performing at a bar in East Lansing, Michigan. While enjoying a post-show drink, he found himself sitting next to an attractive waitress. The then-31-year-old Barrett, feeling nervous and lacking conversation starters, attempted to discuss the Boston Celtics game playing on the bar's television.
«I was trying to explain to her how magnificent Larry Bird was, how he was at a unique moment in his life where he could do almost anything he wanted on a basketball court,» Barrett recalled.
The conversation, however, was unsuccessful, and the waitress soon departed. Though the interaction did not lead to a date, it left a lasting impression on the songwriter, who remained fixated on the idea of Bird performing at the pinnacle of his abilities.
From Napkin to National Anthem
Inspired by the theme of greatness, Barrett penned the lyrics for "One Shining Moment" on a napkin the very next morning while waiting for a brunch date. He recorded the music later that day, having no concept that the composition would eventually become a staple of American sports culture.
The song's journey to CBS Sports was serendipitous. Following a chance meeting in New York with his high school friend, writer Armen Keteyian, Barrett shared the track. Keteyian eventually passed it along to CBS producers. Barrett initially suspected a prank call when CBS executive Doug Towey reached out to express interest in the song, but it was quickly confirmed as a legitimate opportunity.
Establishing a Legacy
While the song was originally intended for the 1987 Super Bowl, the broadcast ran long, and the segment was cut. However, the track found its true home during the NCAA Final Four. Barrett vividly recalls the thrill of hearing his work broadcast following the 1987 championship game between Indiana and Syracuse.
Over the decades, the song has evolved into an essential element of "March Madness," accompanying the montage of highlights as champions cut down the nets. While versions by artists like Luther Vandross and Teddy Pendergrass have since emerged, the original composition remains a cornerstone of Barrett's career.
Although Barrett has composed scores for major events like the Olympics and various PGA championships, "One Shining Moment" remains his most recognized work. Looking back, he remains humble about its success:
«Without this song, I'm sitting at the bar having a beer at the end of a performance. But with the song, doors opened for me and opportunities began to arise. I'm very grateful for that.»