Ingrid Andress, a four-time Grammy nominee, faced significant backlash for her performance of the National Anthem at the Major League Baseball (MLB) Home Run Derby. Held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, the event was highly anticipated, but Andress’s performance left many puzzled.

Her performance, marked by missed notes and an unconventional style, quickly drew comparisons to other infamous versions of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Update: Country singer Ingrid Andress took to her social media accounts to reveal a candid admission regarding her performance at baseball’s Home Run Derby. She admitted to being intoxicated during her rendition of the National Anthem and announced her decision to enter a rehab facility for help. 

In her message on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), Andress apologized to MLB, fans, and the country, expressing regret for her performance and promising updates on her rehab journey. She signed off with “xo, Ingrid.”

A Rocky Start

Ingrid Andress, known for her successful career in country music, began her performance with a traditional approach. However, as she continued, her vocal delivery deviated from the expected melody, causing visible reactions from players and attendees. 

The performance quickly became a trending topic on social media, with many comparing it to Fergie’s widely criticized version at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game and Roseanne Barr’s infamous rendition at a Padres game in 1990.

Social Media Reactions

The internet was swift to respond. Users on various platforms expressed their surprise and disappointment, with some calling it “The Star Strangled Banner.”

One user questioned if the performance was part of a “make a wish thing,” while another noted, “I’ve seen her live several times and she’s always been great! I have no idea what on earth happened there.”

Andress’s Career Highlights

Despite the criticism, Ingrid Andress has an impressive career. Born in Michigan and raised in Colorado, she released her debut album “Lady Like” in March 2020, followed by her sophomore album “Good Person” in 2022. 

Her singles “More Hearts Than Mine” and “Wishful Drinking” with Sam Hunt reached the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at Nos. 30 and 47, respectively. 

She has received four Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist, Best Country Song, and Best Country Album in 2021, and Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Wishful Drinking” in 2023.

A New Era

Amid the backlash, Ingrid Andress announced the upcoming release of her new single “Colorado 9,” set to drop on July 24. She is also scheduled to perform in Nashville on July 17 and Denver on July 24. 

This new era in her career could help shift the focus back to her musical talents and away from the recent controversy.

Performance Analysis

During the Home Run Derby, Ingrid Andress’ vocals took several unexpected turns. Her softer execution of certain lines and the strained delivery of high notes left the audience bemused. 

The climactic moments of “The rockets’ red glare” and “bombs bursting in air” were accompanied by muted fireworks, which seemed more like question marks than exclamation points. 

By the end, Andress’s unconventional take on “O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave” and her creative final push on “o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave” left a lasting, yet confusing, impression.

Public and Media Response

ESPN initially uploaded the performance video but later made it private. However, a user named Buzzer Beater re-uploaded most of the clip on a different channel, allowing the public to continue discussing and critiquing the performance.

While the criticism of Ingrid Andress’s National Anthem performance is widespread, it highlights the intense scrutiny and pressure artists face during high-profile events. Despite this setback, Andress’s career achievements and upcoming projects demonstrate her resilience and dedication to her craft.

In conclusion, Ingrid Andress’s performance at the MLB Home Run Derby sparked significant criticism, but it also underscored her ongoing impact on the music industry. As she prepares to release new music and perform live shows, her fans remain hopeful that she will continue to deliver the quality performances they have come to expect.