Country singer Ingrid Andress has gone viral for her widespread performance of the national anthem during the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.
On Monday night, the four-time Grammy nominee performed an a cappella version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” an incredibly challenging song to sing. Clips of her less-than-popular portrayal have since made the rounds on social media.
Andress, 32, began her career as a Nashville-based songwriter, penning songs for artists across genres, including Bebe Rexha’s “Girl in the Mirror,” Halestorm’s “Conflicted” and the critically acclaimed “Boys,” which became an international hit for the British singer . Charli XCX.
She soon signed a deal with Warner Music Nashville and Atlantic Records for her own music, and released her debut album “Lady Like” in 2020. Her breakthrough single “More Hearts Than Mine” followed the release and peaked at number 30 on Billboard. Hot 100 and stayed on the list for 20 weeks.
In 2021, she released her second biggest song to date, the country radio favorite “Wishful Drinking,” a collaboration with singer Sam Hunt. It also spent 20 weeks on the chart, peaking at number 47.
Her second album, ‘Good Person’, was released in 2022.
Andress’ performance quickly made the rounds on social media. Sports Illustrated writer Alex Carr posted on . .”
Vulture blogger Bethy Squires joked that Andress sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” in italics, a reference to a popular Internet neologism referring to pop singers who stretch vowels and accentuate their vocal roars.
Chris Wright, the editor-in-chief of Saturday Down South, was a little more delicate: “I enjoy Ingrid Andress’s music and have seen her in concert,” he wrote on X. “After listening to that anthem I have a newfound respect for its producers and sound crew. Wow.”
A representative for Andress did not immediately respond to the Associated Press’ request for comment.
In the pantheon of controversial renditions of the national anthem at sporting events, Roseanne Barr’s rendition at a 1990 San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game resulted in similar reactions.
After her performance, Fergie released a statement: “I have always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” the Grammy-winning singer said. “I’m a risk artistically, but this rendition clearly didn’t hit the intended tone. I love this country and I honestly did my best.
Barr responded to Fergie’s performance, writing on Twitter at the time: “Who saw Fergie’s national anthem performance at the NBA All Star Game? I think mine was better quiet.
