The familiar theme to Hockey Night in Canada will live on, but on a different network for different programming. CTV made a surprise announcement today that they have secured exclusive rights to The Hockey Theme, in perpetuity. CBC's popular sports program will still broadcast the games, but to a much different tune.

As a relative newcomer to Toronto, I didn't have the opportunity to grow up with Hockey Night in Canada. To me, the only national anthem has been O Canada. But I knew for many (millions of?) Canadians, a different song symbolized their country. And once I became a resident, and certainly as recently as the latest playoff cycle, I found myself feeling a little bit better when that catchy beat came on the air.

Listen to the iconic tune after the jump.

CTV claims to have saved the song for all Canadians, and will use it in their TSN and RDS hockey broadcasts. They will also incorporate it into their Vancouver 2010 Olympic coverage. CBC, trying to save face, finally made public the $3 million asking price, stating that it would have been an irresponsible cost with taxpayer money. Now they'll launch a national contest to find a new theme song.

The verbal jousting continues, but one thing seems clear to me. Canadians will keep humming their iconic tune and we'll keep watching hockey. Just remember, when the "Dunt da-dunt da-dunt" comes on the air, it isn't Hockey Night in Canada anymore.

Top photo by blogTO flickr pooler gardinergirl.