On Sunday night, country singer Reba McEntire wowed audiences with her powerful and traditional performance of the “Star-Spangled Banner” at Super Bowl LVIII. The 68-year-old star received widespread praise for her rendition, with many highlighting her decision to stick to the original version of the national anthem.
McEntire’s performance had a special significance, as she had previously sung the national anthem fifty years ago at the 1974 National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma, where she was discovered. This made her performance on one of the biggest stages of the year even more meaningful and nostalgic.
The singer and actress looked stunning in a sparkling outfit and a big belt buckle as she belted out the lyrics with the accompaniment of a pre-recorded horn section. The performance was also interspersed with patriotic imagery, including fireworks, American flags, and troops stationed abroad, making it a truly patriotic moment.
Social media was flooded with compliments for McEntire’s performance, with many users praising her for staying true to the traditional version of the national anthem. One user commented on Twitter, “Reba McEntire proving why she’s a living legend. No gimmicks needed.” Another user agreed, writing, “An all-American choice here.”
A third user echoed, “Now THAT’S how you show patriotism! Thank you, Reba!” The country star’s performance was a welcome change from recent years, where singers have faced criticism for trying to put their own spin on the national anthem. McEntire’s decision to keep the performance traditional only added to its impact and appeal.
In a press conference before the game, McEntire shared her thoughts on preparing for such a big moment. She said, “I prepare by being prepared. I’ve been singing the national anthem in the shower when we get in the car… Rex (Linn), my boyfriend, is a huge football fan. He’ll say, ‘Sing it one more time.’ I’ll say, ‘I think I know the words real good right now, so I’m all right.'”
McEntire also expressed her gratitude for being chosen to sing the national anthem, saying, “It means that I get to sing a very special song for all American people around the world who have really worked so hard for our freedom and to give us peace… It’s not about me. I’m a representation of this song, and I’m just honored to get to sing it. It’s a good one. I’ve been doing it for 50 years and I’m really proud to get to sing it.”
The past four Super Bowls have all had country singers performing the national anthem, solidifying the genre’s strong connection to the sport. This year, McEntire joined the ranks of Chris Stapleton (2023), Mickey Guyton (2022), and Eric Church (as part of a duet with R&B singer Jazmine Sullivan in 2021) as country artists to sing the national anthem before the big game.
The last non-country star to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl was Demi Lovato in 2020, making McEntire’s performance a refreshing change. Overall, McEntire’s performance reminded viewers of the power and beauty of the traditional version of the national anthem, and her decades of experience and talent truly shined through.
