What song's chorus is traditionally sung before the Indianapolis 500?

The song traditionally sung before the Indianapolis 500 is “Back Home Again in Indiana.”

The song was written in 1917 by James F. Hanley, with lyrics by Ballard MacDonald. Although it is not Indiana’s official state song, its affectionate portrait of the state made it a natural fit for the race’s pre-event ceremonies. The chorus became especially associated with the Indianapolis 500 through singer Jim Nabors.

Nabors first performed the song at the race in 1972 and returned many times over the following decades. His warm, familiar delivery made the performance one of the event’s most anticipated rituals. After Nabors retired, other performers continued the tradition.

People sometimes confuse the song with “Take Me Home, Country Roads” or patriotic standards such as “God Bless America.” Those songs may appear at sporting events, but the signature Indianapolis 500 singalong is specifically “Back Home Again in Indiana,” usually performed during the pre-race ceremonies.