Do you recall the time when Garth Brooks came close to not singing the national anthem at the Super Bowl? It is said that Garth Brooks almost decided not to perform, but his actions ended up changing the guidelines for Super Bowl performers.
Other than Brooks, there have been several other country stars who have been chosen to sing the anthem in the past. These include Charley Pride, Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks, Kelly Clarkson, and Carrie Underwood. However, when Brooks unexpectedly decided not to perform at the show, it led to a change in policy that has now become a tradition.
Based on the book "The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World's Greatest Sporting Event" by Don Weiss, it is mentioned that Brooks had the intention of premiering his music video for "We Shall Be Free" during the broadcast on January 31, 1993. This song was written as a response to the riots in Los Angeles that occurred after the Rodney King verdict in 1992. The video included footage depicting the KKK, riots, wars, as well as the burning of crosses and flags. However, the network considered the content of the video too controversial, resulting in Brooks leaving the stadium just 45 minutes before the start of the game.
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The network asked Brooks if they could pre-record his performance, but he refused, causing the producers to quickly find a replacement. Jon Bon Jovi was present at the game and was ready to step in while the producers argued with Brooks. Eventually, Brooks won the argument, resulting in the biggest sports event in America being delayed for the first time ever to show his video. Brooks appeared on the field with a mullet and a full mustache and beard, resembling Cyrus. He was joined by Marlee Matlin, an Academy Award-winning actress who is hearing impaired, who provided sign language interpretation during his performance.
After Brooks' decision to perform live, the NFL has now implemented a rule that all renditions of the national anthem during the Super Bowl must be pre-recorded. This information was shared by Ricky Minor, a former Super Bowl Music Director.
He states that this is the correct approach. There are numerous factors to consider before going live. He strongly discourages any artist from going live as even the smallest technical issue could have a detrimental impact on the performance.
15 country music artists who are ready to take the stage and headline a Super Bowl halftime show. Image credit goes to Jess.
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