“NBC Nightly News” Current Theme

In 2004, following the general election, veteran anchor Tom Brokaw retired from NBC News. The transition had been announced well in advance, allowing for a careful introduction of his successor, Brian Williams. As part of the transition, Nightly News updated its iconic theme, The Mission, along with its graphics and set. While the changes were subtle, they debuted in the days leading up to Brokaw’s departure. The updated version of The Mission was recorded in October 2004 in Culver City, California, with a 100-piece orchestra conducted by renowned composer John Williams. NBC News commissioned the update to achieve a crisper, cleaner sound, and to preserve the music. The new theme was recorded digitally. The updated Mission package also included three additional themes, which were kept in reserve for future use. The version you’re hearing is the full-length main theme of The Mission, typically used as the closing theme for Nightly News.

John Williams – NBC Nightly News close

The opening sequence of Nightly News was also revamped in 2004, initially returning to what NBC considered the “roots” of The Mission, featuring a softer headline bed. However, this quickly gave way to the familiar, percussion-heavy cue that had become synonymous with the program.

John Williams – NBC Nightly News open

Interestingly, the full-length opening sequence is actually longer than what aired on television. While the complete piece by John Williams was not used regularly on Nightly News, it did find a home outside of NBC News programming. The full-length version was used by the syndicated Chris Matthews Show.

John Williams – Chris Matthews Show theme