SCOTTSDALE, Az. –
The U.S. Air Force premier rock band, Max Impact was presented with a short-notice, high-visibility opportunity while preforming at the Scottsdale Fan Fest, home to Entertainment Sports and Programming Network's live broadcast for Super Bowl XLIX in Scottsdale, Arizona, Jan. 27, 2015.
Max Impact received an invitation to audition for a televised spot with an ESPN producer less than two hours before their afternoon performance was set to begin.
In less than forty-five minutes, the six-member team gathered to listen, assemble and transcribe their rendition of the song.
"It's an honor and a privilege to be able to represent the U.S. Air Force leading up a large event such as the Super Bowl," said Master Sgt. David Foster, U.S. Air Force Band Max Impact electric bass guitarist. "It's super exciting."
After the band's performance, Arthur Dolan, ESPN producer, walked over to watch the band rock out to ESPN's theme song.
"You're hired!" Dolan shouts after the band finished their 45-second bump.
"It gave me goose bumps," said Dolan. "I'm going to talk to my director and maybe there's a way we could play this as a tease to start the show."
Max Impact is performing Jan. 28, 2015 on ESPN at 6:10 p.m. EST during Sports Center and again on ESPN2 at 7:00 p.m. EST prior to the Duke vs. Notre Dame basketball game.
Max Impact is scheduled to play four shows at the week-long entertainment, food and fashion event. The band has already performed half their shows at Fan Fest.
"I liked the song choices and throwback music," said Master Sgt. Dan Sandoval, 362nd Recruiting Squadron recruiter.
The band performed country hits, current and classic rock along with their patriotic original sound tracks they've dedicated to past, present and future Airmen.
"It's great to see Max Impact representing the Air Force and what we do as a team," said Sandoval. "They're a rock band not too many people know about."
The band seeks to use the power of music to inspire audiences worldwide, create innovative products and programs while representing Air Force excellence.
Their mission is to assist in enhancing troop morale, build partnerships with local, national and international communities, increase recruiting and retention efforts and inspire patriotism.
"I love my men [and women] in arms, I love America," said Archie Mahoney, Fan Fest attendee and Air Force Veteran. "These guys are fabulous."