Inside Out 2: How ESPN and APM Music Reworked an NHL Classic

ESPN alt-casts are back and more emotional than ever! Last weekend's Inside Out Classic was the latest collaboration between the NHL and ESPN to promote Disney’s new Inside Out 2 while exposing the game to a younger demographic.

ESPN’s Creative Department knew they needed to add something special to the classic NHL on ESPN Theme just for the alt-cast. That’s where APM’s Custom Music department took a shift.

Robert Navarro and APMs Custom Music Department teamed up with Steve Ouimette to breathe new life into Bob Christianson’s timeless theme for the league.

The team was tasked with reworking the track to highlight Pop Punk elements that are a driving sound of the Disney sequel.  Live drum tracking and grittier guitars blend to create a perfectly infused version to set the scene on Hockey Island. Unique to the moment but just recognizable enough to know what viewers are tuned in to.

Announcers Drew Carter and Kevin Weekes introduced the world to this reworked version of a classic back in March when the game was first announced.

The New York Rangers dominated the inaugural Inside Out Classic with a final score of 8-1 over the Washington Capitals. Joy had an impactful game, contributing a hat-trick in her NHL debut.

No strangers to alternate presentations, the NHL and ESPN have led the charge with presentations like the Big City Greens Classic in 2023 and a sequel in 2024. Pixar has lent its IP to two NFL alt-casts — Toy Story and Monsters, Inc. — and trusted APM’s Custom Music team to recreate the iconic Monday Night Football (aka "Heavy Action") for the Monsters, Inc. matchup.  

Safe to say that IP-driven alternate productions aren't going anywhere any time soon! Make sure to listen closely the next time you see one pop up. It just might be a new take on a timeless song.