Do you recall the time when Garth Brooks came close to not singing the national anthem at the Super Bowl? According to reports, Garth Brooks almost decided not to perform at the Super Bowl in 1993. This incident ended up changing the guidelines for future Super Bowl performers.
Brooks is not the sole country artist who has been chosen to perform the national anthem. Other country stars such as Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also been given this opportunity in the past. However, Brooks' alleged decision to boycott the show at the last minute led to a modification in the policy, which is now an integral part of the organization.
Don Weiss, a former NFL Executive Director, revealed in his book, "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event," that Garth Brooks had planned 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, as well as cross and flag burnings. However, the network considered the clip too controversial and as a result, Brooks allegedly left the stadium just 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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The network asked Brooks to pre-record his performance, but he declined, causing producers to urgently search for a replacement. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was ready to step in as they tried to convince Brooks. Eventually, Brooks prevailed, and for the first time ever, the biggest sports event in America was delayed to showcase his video. With a mullet and full mustache and beard reminiscent of Cyrus, Brooks then went onto the field to perform. Accompanying him was Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired, providing a sign language interpretation.
After Brooks' departure, the NFL has implemented a rule that all Super Bowl performances of the national anthem must be pre-recorded, as stated by former Super Bowl Music Director Ricky Minor.
"He believes that is the correct approach," he states. "There are numerous factors to consider before broadcasting live. I would strongly advise against any artist choosing to go live, as even the tiniest technical issue could have a catastrophic impact on the performance."
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