Image source, Getty Images
- author, Ian Youngs
- role, BBC News Culture Reporter
Country singer Ingrid Andress has admitted she was drunk when she was widely mocked for singing the American national anthem at a baseball stadium, and has apologized.
On Monday, after Major League Baseball’s Home Run Derby in Texas, Andres’ shaky performance of the U.S. national anthem was widely shared.
“I was drunk last night,” wrote Andres, a four-time Grammy nominee.
“I will be admitted to a facility today to receive the assistance I need. I was not who I was last night, and I apologize to MLB, all of my fans and the country I love for this performance.”
She added: “I’ll let everyone know what rehab is like. I hear it’s a lot of fun.”
Andres’ a cappella rendition of the national anthem was described on social media as “harrowing” and “one of the worst performances of the national anthem in history.”
The Daily Beast’s headline was “America Unites in Worst National Anthem Performance in History.”
Image source, Getty Images
One person posted a video of Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm grinning as Andres sang.
But she also received sympathy and support after her apology.
“I’m so sorry this happened to you,” wrote singer and actress Lucy Hale. “My heartfelt prayers go out to you. Take care. I know you’ll get through this and come out stronger.”
Country singer Martina McBride said: “Sending you lots of love and positivity. You can do it.”
Singer-songwriter Julia Michaels said: “I love you. I’m sorry you went through this. And I’m sorry the world is so cruel. I’m on your side, XX.”
“True talent”
Fellow singer-songwriter Carly Pearce said, “It must be hard to be this open. You can do it. Good luck.”
Andress debuted as an a cappella singer on the NBC series “The Sing-Off” in 2010 and went on to have a solo career, after which she was nominated for a Grammy Award in the 2021 category for Best New Artist.
She also co-wrote the hits “Boys” by Charli XCX and “Girl in the Mirror” by Bebe Rexha.
