There was a time when Garth Brooks almost didn't sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. It was in 1993 and his decision to potentially walk away ended up changing the Super Bowl performer guidelines.
Other country stars like Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also been chosen to sing the anthem in the past. However, when Brooks decided to boycott the show at the last minute, it led to a policy change that has now become a regular practice within the institution.
Brooks had plans to premiere his music video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast of the Super Bowl on January 31, 1993, as mentioned in Don Weiss' book, The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event. The song was written as a response to the riots that occurred in Los Angeles after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The music video included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and the burning of crosses and flags. However, the network considered the video too controversial and as a result, Brooks allegedly left the stadium with only 45 minutes left before kickoff.
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Despite the network's attempt to have his performance pre-recorded, Brooks refused, causing producers to frantically search for a replacement at the last minute. Jon Bon Jovi happened to be present at the game and was put on standby while the producers argued with Brooks. In the end, Brooks prevailed, resulting in the first-ever delay of the biggest sports event in America to showcase his video. Brooks, with a mullet and a full mustache and beard reminiscent of Cyrus, then took to the field to perform. Accompanying him was Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired, providing sign language interpretation.
After his departure, Brooks performed live at the event. However, former Super Bowl Music Director Ricky Minor revealed that the NFL has now mandated that all renditions of the national anthem at the Super Bowl must be pre-recorded.
He comments that following that approach is correct. He believes that there are numerous factors to consider before going live. He strongly advises against any artist choosing to go live, as even the smallest technical issue could have a detrimental impact on the performance.
15 country music artists who are ready to take the stage as the main act for a Super Bowl halftime show. The credit for the gallery goes
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