Brandi Carlile delivered an emotionally charged rendition of "America the Beautiful" before Super Bowl LX kickoff on Sunday. Her performance, accompanied by SistaStrings, offered a melodically rich interpretation of the classic anthem, setting a contemplative tone for the highly anticipated game.
Key Takeaways
- Brandi Carlile sang "America the Beautiful" at Super Bowl LX.
- She performed with SistaStrings, emphasizing a melodic approach.
- Carlile chose a challenging key, showcasing her vocal range.
- Her performance aimed to convey 'fragile hope' for the nation.
- The overall Super Bowl music lineup represented diverse demographics.
A Vocal Masterclass on the Big Stage
Carlile, known for her powerful vocal range, chose a demanding key for her performance. She admitted to feeling some apprehension beforehand, stating, "I'm a little worried about it. I put it in a key that's right at the ceiling there for me, and so I'm gonna come out swinging." She certainly did, adding a distinct vibrato to her delivery.
The performance featured the acclaimed string duo SistaStrings, who frequently collaborate with Carlile. They provided a lush interlude as cameras showcased cityscapes from Seattle and New England, creating a visual and auditory journey.
Performance Details
- Song: "America the Beautiful"
- Artist: Brandi Carlile
- Accompaniment: SistaStrings (acoustic guitar, strings)
- Event: Super Bowl LX pre-game
- Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
Interpreting "America the Beautiful" in Modern Times
Carlile shared her thoughts on the song's enduring relevance. She reflected on Katharine Lee Bates' original lyrics, written over 125 years ago. "I don’t want to put words in her mouth; she was beyond brilliant. But it feels almost like she was feeling the way about the country when she wrote it that I’m feeling today singing it," Carlile explained.
Her interpretation aimed to convey a sense of "fragile hope" for the nation's future. She emphasized acknowledging both America's past and its current state, noting that "total celebration is not in order; that our prayers are still in order."
"The only way to move forward is with belief… And I think if we’re gonna save this country as a people, we have to be reminded on some level that deep down we love it."
Historical Context
"America the Beautiful" was originally a poem written by Katharine Lee Bates in 1895, inspired by her journey across the country. The lyrics describe America's natural beauty and call for national unity and moral rectitude. It has become one of the most beloved patriotic songs in the United States.
Addressing the Audience and National Mood
Carlile recognized that singing a patriotic anthem in the current climate could be seen as controversial by some. She addressed this directly, stating, "I definitely don't want to be seen as neoliberal or as someone who's glossing over the problems that we have in this country. I want to be seen as one of the people that's helping." She aimed for her performance to be a unifying moment, offering a message of hope and belief in the nation's potential.
Diversity in Super Bowl Entertainment
The Super Bowl LX musical lineup featured a diverse array of artists, including Bad Bunny, Charlie Puth, and Coco Jones, alongside Carlile. She praised the organizers for their inclusive choices, remarking that the lineup "looks exactly like America! It looks exactly like the United States."
Carlile believes the diverse representation reflects the players on the field and the wide audience watching the game. She highlighted the unifying power of such a large event. "It looks like the people that are watching the sport. And that’s how it should look, with a lot of demographics represented, and a lot of enthusiastic people excited to celebrate a huge game on a unifying day," she said.
The halftime show, featuring Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, and Ricky Martin, further exemplified this commitment to diversity, drawing widespread acclaim. Carlile expressed particular admiration for Bad Bunny, calling him "incredible — an incredible spirit and performer."
A Heart for Her Hometown Team
Despite NFL rules prohibiting performers from wearing team gear, Carlile, a Seattle native, confirmed her loyalty. She humorously stated, "You’re not allowed to. But I’ll have a Seahawks jersey on in my heart." Her connection to her roots remained evident, even on the national stage.
Carlile's performance was more than just a musical act; it was a statement on national identity and collective aspiration. Through her powerful voice and thoughtful interpretation, she offered a moment of reflection and a call for unity, setting an impactful tone for Super Bowl LX.