In 1993, there was a moment when Garth Brooks almost decided not to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. This incident ended up changing the expectations and guidelines for future Super Bowl performers.
Brooks is not the sole country music artist who has been chosen to perform the national anthem. Other notable country stars like Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also been given this opportunity in the past. However, Brooks' alleged last-minute refusal to perform led to a change in policy, which has now become a significant aspect of the institution.
Based on the book "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event" by Don Weiss, it is mentioned that Garth Brooks had the intention of premiering his music video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast on January 31, 1993. This song was written as a response to the riots in Los Angeles that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The music video included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and acts of burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the video too controversial, which led to Brooks leaving the stadium only 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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The network asked Brooks to pre-record his performance, but he refused, causing producers to search for a last-minute replacement. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was ready to step in while producers debated with Brooks. Eventually, Brooks prevailed, and the major sports event in the United States was delayed for the first time ever to showcase Brooks' video. Brooks appeared on the field with a mullet and a complete mustache and beard, resembling Cyrus. He was accompanied by Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired, providing a sign language interpretation of his performance.
After Brooks walked out, the NFL decided that all Super Bowl performances of the national anthem should be pre-recorded. This information was shared by Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
According to him, doing it in that manner is correct. He believes that there are too many factors to consider when going live. He strongly advises against any artist choosing to go live, as even the smallest malfunction could have a disastrous impact on the performance.
Here is a collection of 15 talented country artists who are ready to take the stage as headliners for a Super Bowl halftime show.
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