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.
In addition to Brooks, there have been several other country stars who have been chosen to perform the anthem, such as Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood. However, due to Brooks reportedly boycotting the show at the last minute, there was a policy change implemented that has now become a permanent part of the event.
Based on information from Don Weiss' book, "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event," Garth Brooks had plans to premiere 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 video for the song included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the video too controversial, and as a result, Brooks reportedly left the stadium just 45 minutes before the game was scheduled to start.
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Brooks refused the network's plea to pre-record his performance, causing the producers to search for a last-minute replacement. Jon Bon Jovi happened to be present at the game and was kept on standby while the producers debated with Brooks. In the end, Brooks prevailed, and the most significant sports event in America was postponed for the first time ever to showcase Brooks' video. With a hairstyle resembling Cyrus and sporting a complete mustache and beard, Brooks then went onto the field to perform. Accompanying him was Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired, providing sign language interpretation.
After Brooks walked out, the NFL decided that all performances of the national anthem at the Super Bowl must be pre-recorded. This new requirement was confirmed by Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
He expresses that this is the correct approach. He believes that there are numerous factors that could hinder a live performance. Therefore, he would never advise any artist to perform live, as even the smallest technical issue could greatly affect the quality of the performance.
Here are 15 country artists who are ready and capable of headlining a Super Bowl halftime show. Credit for the gallery goes to Jess.
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