The 2024 Home Run Derby began with a performance that has sparked more buzz than the event itself. Country music star and four-time Grammy nominee Ingrid Andress took to the field at Texas' Globe Life Field on July 15 to sing the National Anthem, but her rendition quickly became a hot topic on social media.
As soon as Andress finished her performance, users on X (formerly known as Twitter) began sharing their thoughts, many of which were less than favorable. Some even compared it to Fergie's infamous 2018 NBA All-Star Game anthem performance. "Fergie watching Ingrid Andress claim her crown for worst national anthem of all time," one user quipped.
Others drew parallels to the 2006 Saturday Night Live skit "National Anthem," featuring Maya Rudolph as contest winner Pamela Bell, who delivered a hilariously off-key version of the song. One fan humorously commented, "Ingrid Andress has been placed on the 60-day IL with a torn esophagus," alongside a picture of Andress during her performance.
Despite the online backlash, Andress maintained a positive outlook. On the same day, she announced the release of her new single, "Colorado 9," set to drop on July 24. "Greetings to everyone that has a pulse," she wrote on social media. "I truly love you all so much. I’ve been absent for a minute, but I’m so stoked to announce that my new single 'Colorado 9' comes out on July 24th, pre-save it now (link in bio)."
In addition to her new music, Andress shared that she would be performing two special shows and hinted at more announcements to come. "Thank you for being here for me even though I’ve been living under a rock. Y’all are the best, and I can’t wait to see you at my shows (stay tuned for more show announcements soon)," she added.
The reaction to Andress' performance underscores the high expectations and scrutiny artists face when performing the National Anthem at major events. As the conversation continues online, fans and critics alike are eager to see how she responds with her upcoming music and performances.
