Country singer Ingrid Andress faced strong criticism following her performance of the U.S. national anthem at the MLB Home Run Derby. The four-time Grammy nominee acknowledged her subpar rendition and attributed it to being drunk, prompting her to seek help at a facility. The MLB declined to comment on the matter.
Andress, known for hits like “More Hearts Than Mine” and “Wishful Drinking,” began her career as a songwriter before signing with Warner Music Nashville and Atlantic Records. Despite her success in the music industry, her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, went viral for all the wrong reasons.
Critics on social media likened Andress' performance to a pop singer singing “in cursive,” referencing the way she elongated vowels and used vocal fry. While some expressed disappointment in her rendition, others acknowledged her talent as a musician. In comparison to other controversial renditions of the national anthem, such as Roseanne Barr's at a 1990 San Diego Padres game and Fergie's at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game, Andress' performance sparked similar reactions.
In the aftermath of the incident, Fergie released a statement expressing her artistic risk-taking and love for the country despite her own national anthem mishap. Roseanne Barr even chimed in on social media, comparing her performance to Fergie's and asserting her own superiority.
Overall, Andress' apology and commitment to seeking help demonstrate a sense of accountability for her actions. Despite the negative reception of her national anthem rendition, her success as a musician and songwriter remains intact.