After a widely criticized performance of the U.S. national anthem at the MLB Home Run Derby, country singer Ingrid Andress issued an apology on Tuesday, admitting she was drunk during the event.
“I’m checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need,” she wrote in an Instagram post. “That was not me last night. I apologize to MLB, all the fans, and this country I love so much for that rendition.”
MLB has declined to comment on the incident, according to spokesperson Matt Bourne. A representative for Andress also stated that there would be no further comments at this time.
On Monday night, the four-time Grammy nominee performed an a cappella version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The performance quickly went viral, receiving widespread criticism on social media.
Sports Illustrated writer Alex Carr tweeted, “I’m so sorry, I’m sure Ingrid Andress is a wonderful person, but that was one of the worst national anthems I think I’ve ever heard in my whole life.”
Who is Ingrid Andress?
Andress, 32, started her career as a Nashville songwriter, creating songs for various artists, including Bebe Rexha’s “Girl in the Mirror,” Halestorm’s “Conflicted,” and Charli XCX’s international hit “Boys.” She later signed with Warner Music Nashville and Atlantic Records, releasing her debut album “Lady Like” in 2020. Her breakthrough single “More Hearts Than Mine” peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed on the chart for 20 weeks.
In 2021, Andress released “Wishful Drinking,” a collaboration with Sam Hunt, which also spent 20 weeks on the Billboard chart, peaking at No. 47. Her sophomore album, “Good Person,” was released in 2022.
Reactions to Her MLB Home Run Derby Performance
Andress’ rendition of the anthem received significant attention on social media. Vulture blogger Bethy Squires joked that Andress sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” “in cursive,” referring to a style of singing that accentuates vocal fry and stretched vowels.
Chris Wright, executive editor of Saturday Down South, commented on Twitter, “I enjoy Ingrid Andress’ music and have seen her in concert. After listening to that National Anthem, I have a newfound respect for her producers and sound crew. Wow.”
Past Controversial Anthem Performances
Andress’ performance joins the list of controversial national anthem renditions at sporting events. Notably, Roseanne Barr’s rendition at a 1990 San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game faced similar backlash. Fergie later stated, “I’m a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn’t strike the intended tone. I love this country and honestly tried my best.” Roseanne Barr also commented on Fergie’s performance, tweeting, “Who saw Fergie’s national anthem performance at the NBA All-Star Game? I think mine was better lowkey.”
Future Plans for Andress
As of today, Andress had four upcoming tour dates listed online: July 17 at Nashville’s Cannery Hall, July 24 at Denver’s Globe Hall Live Music & BBQ, August 3 at Minneapolis’ Basilica Block Party, and October 4 at Inlet Lodge in Ocean City, Maryland, for the Country Calling festival. Her official website now only lists the two festival dates.
A representative for Andress confirmed to The Associated Press that her “upcoming shows in Nashville and Denver have been canceled, and the venues are in touch with ticket buyers regarding refunds.”
