Fergie Is Sorry About That National Anthem Fiasco

The singer's performance at the NBA All-Star game had some fans bewildered
By Josh Gardner,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 19, 2018 6:23 PM CST
Fergie Is Sorry About That National Anthem Fiasco
In this Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, photo, Fergie performs the national anthem before the start of the NBA All-Star basketball game in Los Angeles.   (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Fergie has responded to widespread criticism surrounding her decidedly non-traditional rendition of the national anthem at Sunday's NBA All-Star game. The 42-year-old singer attempted a slowed down, jazzier version of the song in what she now admits was an artistic risk gone awry, per People. “I’ve always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” she said in a statement. “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.” Fergie's performance was panned online almost immediately and was compared by some to "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" as sung by Marilyn Monroe to John F. Kennedy in 1962, only "screechier," writes Variety. (More Fergie stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X