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 for future Super Bowl performers.
Other country artists such as Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also been chosen to sing the anthem in the past. However, Brooks' alleged decision to boycott the show at the last minute led to a change in policy that has now become a significant part of the institution.
Based on Don Weiss' book, The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event, it is mentioned that Brooks had the intention of premiering his music video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast on January 31, 1993. The song was written as a response to the riots in Los Angeles that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The video contained footage depicting the KKK, riots, wars, and symbols of burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the content too controversial and as a result, Brooks allegedly left the stadium just 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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Brooks refused the network's request to pre-record his performance, causing producers to search for a last-minute replacement. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was ready to step in while the producers negotiated with Brooks. In the end, Brooks prevailed, resulting in the delay of the biggest sports event in America for the first time ever, to showcase his video. With a mullet and facial hair reminiscent of Cyrus, Brooks then went onto the field to perform, with Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin providing sign language interpretation due to her hearing impairment.
According to Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director, after Brooks walked out, the NFL has now made it mandatory for all Super Bowl performances of the national anthem to be pre-recorded.
He states that doing it that way is correct. He believes that there are too many factors to consider before going live. He would never advise any artist to go live because even the smallest technical issue could ruin the performance.
Here is a list of 15 country artists who are well-prepared to take on the role of headlining a Super Bowl halftime show.
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