In 1993, there was a moment when Garth Brooks came close to refusing to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. This incident ended up changing the expectations for future Super Bowl performers.
Brooks is not the sole country artist who has been chosen to perform the national anthem. Other country stars like Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood have also had the privilege of singing the anthem 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 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 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 contained footage depicting the KKK, riots, wars, and acts of burning crosses and flags. However, the network considered the content too controversial and as a result, Brooks reportedly left the stadium only 45 minutes before the kickoff.
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Brooks refused the network's offer to record his performance in advance, causing the producers to frantically search for a last-minute replacement. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was kept on standby while the producers negotiated with Brooks. Eventually, Brooks prevailed and the most significant sporting event in America was postponed for the first time ever to showcase Brooks' video. With a mullet and facial hair reminiscent of Cyrus, Brooks then appeared on the field to perform, with Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin providing a sign language interpretation due to her being hearing impaired.
After Brooks walked out, the NFL decided that all Super Bowl performances of the national anthem must be pre-recorded. This information was shared by Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
According to him, doing it that way is the correct approach. He believes that there are numerous factors to consider before going live. He personally would not advise any artist to go live, as even the smallest technical issue could have a devastating impact on the performance.
15 artists from the country music genre who are ready to take the stage as the main act during a Super Bowl halftime show. Credit for the
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