For over a decade, the League of Legends World Championship Grand Final has been marked by its spectacular Opening Ceremony, where music plays a central role in hyping up audiences for the event’s climactic international showdown. These performances have become some of the most eagerly awaited moments in the esports calendar, blending the excitement of gaming with the universal appeal of music.
American artist Chrissy Costanza, the lead singer of Against the Current, has played a key role in linking League of Legends (LoL) esports with music. She has performed at Worlds more than any other artist, first in 2017 with “Legends Never Die,” then again in 2019 with “Phoenix,” and most recently in 2025.
In an interview with Esports Insider just before her third performance at the 2025 Worlds Finals, Costanza discussed how music has played a crucial role in bringing LoL esports to a global stage. She explained that music has not only enhanced the experience for fans but also brought new audiences into the LoL universe. The Worlds Opening Ceremonies have grown in popularity, with peak viewership increasing by 20% annually since 2022. In 2025, the ceremony attracted nearly half the total audience of the final itself.
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Music as a Bridge Between Cultures
Each year, the Worlds ceremony adapts to its host city, reflecting the local culture. Costanza pointed out that Riot Games’ recent efforts to select regional artists for the opening ceremony have made each year feel unique. Riot’s strategy of choosing local talent for global events, starting in 2022, has been a game-changer. Artists like NewJeans in Korea (2023) and G.E.M. in China (2025) have not only captivated local audiences but also introduced global fans to performers they may have otherwise never encountered.
Costanza highlighted that for many fans, songs like “Legends Never Die” have served as entry points into the League of Legends universe, especially for those who weren’t initially familiar with the game. She cited how a lot of her friends learned about League of Legends through the song, bridging the gap between music and esports.
The Power of Storytelling Through Song
Riot’s partnership with artists like Imagine Dragons, Zedd, and Costanza herself has created an emotional connection through music. Songs like “STARWALKIN,” “GODS,” and “Heavy is the Crown” not only amplify the competitive spirit but also tell deep, emotional stories about the journey of players. “A lot of people just think of [‘Heavy is the Crown’] as a massive Linkin Park song, but then they dig deeper and realise it was part of something bigger,” said Costanza. Music has become the soundtrack to the experience of LoL esports, narrating the lore, history, and drama that fans are already invested in.
Sacrifices and Reflections
This year’s anthem, “Sacrifice,” marked the 15th anniversary of LoL esports. The song honours the sacrifices made by professional players, but Costanza shared that musicians, too, make similar sacrifices in their careers. She spoke candidly about the emotional and physical toll of long tours, constant travel, and missed family events. Despite these challenges, Costanza said the experience is worth it. “You can’t be anywhere else when you’re here. It’s tough, but I love it,” she reflected.
“Legends Never Die” — A Turning Point
For Costanza, the song “Legends Never Die” in 2017 was a turning point in her career. At the time, her band Against the Current was still rising, and she had no idea the song would become one of the most iconic anthems in LoL history. “That moment shaped everything for me,” she said, reflecting on how deeply the experience influenced her career trajectory.
A Look to the Future
As League of Legends esports continues to grow, the Opening Ceremony remains the jewel of Riot Games’ musical projects. This moment, where the music, esports, and storytelling converge, is a highlight of the World Championship Finals each year, drawing millions of fans worldwide.
With the increasing popularity of LoL Esports and its soundtracks, more artists are eager to collaborate with Riot Games, setting the stage for even more spectacular performances in future tournaments.