In 1993, there was a situation where Garth Brooks almost refused to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. This incident ended up changing the guidelines for future Super Bowl performers.
Brooks is not the sole country music artist who has been selected to perform the national anthem. Other notable names such as Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also had the privilege of doing so 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 aspect of this tradition.
As stated in Don Weiss' book, "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event," Garth Brooks had intended to premiere his music video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast on January 31, 1993. The song was written as a response to the L.A. riots that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The video included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and acts of burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the clip too controversial and decided not to air it. As a result, Brooks allegedly left the stadium just 45 minutes before 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 the producers argued with Brooks. In the end, Brooks prevailed, and the biggest sports event in America was delayed for the first time ever to showcase Brooks' video. Brooks appeared on the field with a mullet and a full mustache and beard, reminiscent of Cyrus. Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin, who is hearing impaired, provided sign language interpretation during Brooks' performance.
After Garth Brooks performed live during his walkout at the Super Bowl, the NFL has now established a rule that all renditions of the national anthem during the Super Bowl must be pre-recorded. This information comes from Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
He expresses that doing it in that manner is correct. The number of factors involved is too high to broadcast live. He would never suggest any artist to go live because even the smallest error would have a detrimental impact on the performance.
15 country musicians who are ready to take the stage as the main act for a Super Bowl halftime show. Gallery credit goes to Jess.
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