Do you recall the time when Garth Brooks was on the verge of not performing the national anthem at the Super Bowl? It is said that in 1993, he almost walked away from the opportunity and in doing so, he ended up changing the way Super Bowl performers are chosen.
Brooks is not the sole country music artist who has been chosen 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 singing it in the past. However, when Brooks reportedly decided to back out of the performance at the last minute, it led to a change in the show's policy, which has now become a regular 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 a plan to showcase his video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast on January 31, 1993. The song was written in response to the riots in Los Angeles that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The video included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and the burning of crosses and flags. However, the network considered the clip too controversial and as a result, Brooks left the stadium just 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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The network asked Brooks to pre-record his performance, but he refused, causing producers to search for a replacement at the last minute. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was ready to step in while the producers debated with Brooks. However, Brooks ended up winning the argument, resulting in the biggest sports event in America being delayed for the first time ever to showcase his video. With a mullet and complete facial hair, reminiscent of Cyrus, Brooks then went onto the field to perform. Accompanying him was Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin, who is deaf and provided sign language interpretation.
After Brooks' decision to perform live, the NFL decided to change their policy. Former Super Bowl Music Director Ricky Minor stated that now all renditions of the national anthem at the Super Bowl must be pre-recorded.
"He claims that is the correct method," he states. "There are numerous factors to consider before going live. I would strongly advise against any artist going live, as even the tiniest technical issue could have a disastrous impact on the performance."
15 country music artists who are well-positioned to headline a Super Bowl halftime show. Gallery credit goes to Jess.
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