In 1993, there was a close call with Garth Brooks potentially not performing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. This incident ended up changing the regulations for future Super Bowl performers.
In addition to Brooks, several other country stars such as Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also been chosen to perform the national anthem at various events 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 an integral part of the institution.
In his book "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event," Don Weiss, a former NFL Executive Director, reveals that Brooks had intended 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 L.A. riots that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The video included footage of the KKK, riots, wars, and instances of burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the content of the video too controversial, leading to Brooks reportedly leaving the stadium just 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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Brooks refused the network's request to pre-record his performance, causing producers to search for a last-minute substitute. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was kept on standby while producers negotiated with Brooks. Eventually, Brooks was successful in his request, resulting in the biggest sports event in America being delayed for the first time ever to showcase Brooks' video. Brooks appeared on the field with a mullet and facial hair resembling that of Miley Cyrus, and his performance was complemented by sign language interpretation from Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired.
After Brooks' departure, the NFL has implemented a new rule that mandates all Super Bowl national anthem performances to be pre-recorded, as revealed by Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
He affirms that this is the correct approach. There are numerous factors to consider before going live. He strongly advises against any artist performing live, as even the smallest technical issue could have a catastrophic impact on the performance.
15 country music artists who are ready to take the stage and headline a Super Bowl halftime show. Credit for the gallery goes to Jess.
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