Internet Critics Take Issue With Ingrid Andress's 2024 Home Run Derby National Anthem

**Internet Critics Take Issue With Ingrid Andress's 2024 Home Run Derby National Anthem**

For more than six years, I have covered pop culture, music, and television.

July 15, 2024, 11:12 p.m. EDT

Revised at 11:14 p.m. EDT on July 15, 2024.

**GETTY IMAGES PHOTOS: Ingrid Andress sings the [+]MLB in Arlington, Texas on July 15.**

On July 15, country music performer Ingrid Andress performed the national anthem at the Home Run Derby. Unfortunately, her performance, which opened the well-known MLB event, quickly drew negative attention on social media.

The four-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter presented the "Star-Spangled Banner" during the 2024 Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Viewers and sports analysts reacted to her rough performance on social media, pointing out that she missed multiple notes.

"To put it mildly, the national anthem performed by four-time Grammy nominee Ingrid Andress on ESPN prior to the 2024 Home Run Derby was intriguing...," the account Horrible Declaring wrote on X.

"The fact that Ingrid Andress hasn't missed a note is astounding. That was excruciating, #HomeRunDerby," commented a second X user.

Sports Illustrated writer and podcast host Alex Carr stated, "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."

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After that, the camera panned to a few players, including Philadelphia Phillies player Alec Bohm, who was struggling to contain his laughter. Immediately, viewers began comparing it to Fergie's controversial live rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game.

CBS Sports writer Mike Axisa noted, "With all due respect to Ms. Andress, who is extremely talented and undoubtedly a charming country singer, her rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ was not good. I apologize, but it wasn't. It needs to be said since it's something we're all thinking."

**GETTY IMAGES PHOTOS: Ingrid Andress sings the [+]MLB in Arlington, Texas on July 15.**

A video of Ingrid Andress's performance that ESPN had originally uploaded to YouTube has since been removed.

The 32-year-old singer gained popularity with her albums "Good Person" and "Lady Like," as well as her 2019 breakthrough song "More Hearts Than Mine." She received four Grammy nominations in 2021, including Best New Artist, Best Country Song, and Best Country Album. Her song "Wishful Drinking" with Sam Hunt was a 2023 nominee for Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

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In the aftermath of the performance, discussions online have been intense. Some fans defended Andress, arguing that live performances can be challenging and that every artist has off days. They pointed out her extensive achievements and contributions to the country music genre, suggesting that one subpar performance should not overshadow her career.

However, others were less forgiving. Critics pointed out that performing the national anthem at such a high-profile event requires a certain level of preparation and execution. They felt that Andress, despite her talent, did not meet the expectations for such a significant occasion.

Comparisons to Fergie's 2018 NBA All-Star Game performance were inevitable. Like Andress, Fergie faced a torrent of criticism for her unconventional rendition of the anthem. Both instances sparked debates about the pressures artists face when performing patriotic songs and the scrutiny that follows any deviation from the norm.

Andress has yet to publicly respond to the backlash. Her silence has led to further speculation about how the criticism might affect her career and future performances. Some industry insiders believe that while the incident is unfortunate, it is unlikely to have a long-term negative impact on her career. They argue that Andress's talent and track record will help her bounce back from this setback.

Meanwhile, the MLB has not issued an official statement regarding the performance. Historically, the league has supported artists chosen to perform at its events, recognizing the challenges and pressures of live performances. It remains to be seen if any changes will be made to future event protocols to ensure smoother performances.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: live performances, especially of the national anthem, come with immense pressure and high expectations. For Andress, this experience might serve as a learning opportunity and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live music. Her fans, as well as critics, will undoubtedly be watching her next steps closely.

In the world of entertainment, every performance is a chance to win over new fans or, as seen in this case, face intense scrutiny. How Ingrid Andress navigates this controversy will be a testament to her resilience and professionalism in the industry.