Ingrid Andress, the country singer who faced widespread criticism for her performance of the U.S. national anthem at the MLB Home Run Derby, has publicly apologized and admitted to being intoxicated during the event.
In a statement posted on social media Tuesday, Andress, 32, expressed regret over her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which took place Monday night at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. “I’m checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need,” Andress wrote. “That was not me last night. I apologize to MLB, all the fans, and this country I love so much for that rendition.”
Major League Baseball has declined to comment on the incident, according to spokesperson Matt Bourne. A representative for Andress also indicated that no further statements would be made at this time.
Andress, who is the daughter of former major league strength and conditioning coach Brad Andress, has previously been nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist in 2021. She began her career as a Nashville songwriter before launching her own music career with a debut album in 2020, followed by a second album in 2022. She had been promoting a new single scheduled for release next week prior to the controversy.
The negative reception of Andress’s anthem performance is not unique; past renditions by celebrities such as Roseanne Barr and Fergie have also sparked significant backlash.
In contrast, country singer Cody Johnson delivered a well-received performance of the national anthem before Tuesday’s All-Star Game. Johnson, a Texas native, performed in a white cowboy hat and cream-colored blazer, removing the hat just before he began singing. Canadian duo Nice Horse, comprising Katie Rox and Brandi Sidoryk, also performed the anthem smoothly prior to Johnson’s appearance.
Johnson, 37, had previously thrown a ceremonial first pitch at Globe Life Field earlier this season.
Related topics:
WHAT COUNTRY INVENTED METAL MUSIC?
10 COUNTRY MUSIC STARS WHO FELL
TOP 10 BEST LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC NEAR DALLAS, TEXAS