Country Star’s MLB Anthem Apology Shocks Fans

After a much-criticized performance of the U.S. national anthem at the MLB Home Run Derby, country singer Ingrid Andress apologized on Tuesday, citing that she was under the influence of alcohol.

“I’m checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need,” she shared on social media. “That was not me last night. I apologize to MLB, all the fans, and this country I love so much for that rendition.”

Major League Baseball chose not to comment, according to spokesperson Matt Bourne. A representative for Andress confirmed there will be no further statements at this time.

Andress, 32, is the daughter of Brad Andress, a former major league strength and conditioning coach who worked with the Detroit Tigers, Colorado Rockies, and New York Mets.

A four-time Grammy nominee, including a nod for Best New Artist in 2021, Andress sang a challenging a cappella version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” on Monday night. Clips of her performance at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, quickly spread on social media.

Andress began her career in Nashville as a songwriter before signing a deal to release her own music, debuting her first album in 2020 and a second in 2022. She has been promoting a new single scheduled for release next week.

This isn’t the first time an anthem performance has faced backlash. Notable controversial renditions include Roseanne Barr’s at a 1990 San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game.

Country singer Cody Johnson flawlessly performed the national anthem before Tuesday night’s All-Star Game. Wearing a white cowboy hat and cream-colored blazer, Johnson sang flawlessly and raised his hat several times during the performance.

Canadian duo Nice Horse, comprised of Katie Rox and Brandi Sidoryk, performed the Canadian national anthem before Johnson’s performance. Their harmony-filled rendition went smoothly as well.

Earlier this season, Johnson had already thrown out a ceremonial first pitch at Globe Life Field before being assigned the anthem performance.

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