Cornelison to Perform “Indiana” at PRI Hoosier 500

Jim Cornelison to perform at the PRI Hoosier 500
Photo Credit: IndyStar

INDIANAPOLIS — Race organizers are proud to announce that renowned vocalist Jim Cornelison will perform the timeless classic “(Back Home Again in) Indiana” during pre-race ceremonies for the 2025 PRI Hoosier 500.

The performance will take place Sunday, December 14, as part of the live broadcast of The World’s Greatest Sim Race, streaming on the PRI Facebook and YouTube channels. The pre-race show begins at 11:00 a.m. Eastern (U.S.) time, with the green flag set for Noon.

Cornelison has performed “(Back Home Again in) Indiana” at the Indianapolis 500 since 2017, serving as a formidable follow-up to the legendary Jim Nabors. The Indiana University graduate is also known for his stirring renditions of The Star-Spangled Banner at Chicago Blackhawks home games, where his powerful voice and emotional delivery have become synonymous with American sports pageantry.

A classically trained tenor, Cornelison has also performed for the Indianapolis 500, Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, and NASCAR at Chicagoland Speedway, among other major events.

“Having Jim Cornelison perform ‘Back Home Again in Indiana’ is an incredible honor for the PRI Hoosier 500,” said Tanner Watkins, president and co-owner of the event. “His voice and presence embody everything we want this race to represent — respect for tradition, pride in competition, and the unmistakable spirit of our beloved Memorial Day ‘500’.”

Beyond his sports performances, Cornelison’s career includes appearances with esteemed organizations such as the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Seattle Opera, and Tulsa Opera, as well as concerts with symphony orchestras across the United States. His unmistakable style — equal parts operatic precision and patriotic passion — has made him one of the nation’s most respected live performers.

Cornelison’s performance will serve as the bookend on a packed pre-race ceremonies schedule ahead of the PRI Hoosier 500 on race day. Additional dignitaries and performers will be announced in the weeks leading into the race, including National Anthem, God Bless America, and more.