Singer Loomis issued a heartfelt apology after her live rendering of the National Anthem during a C-SPAN broadcast garnered viral attention for all the wrong reasons. On a Wednesday, she kicked off a debate organized by the Free & Equal Elections Foundation, showcasing third-party candidates, with a powerful, yet fateful, interpretation of the Star-Spangled Banner.
Halfway through her performance, which simultaneously echoed through radios and reverberated online, her voice unexpectedly wavered as she attempted to reach the song's iconic high notes. "I fucked it up, I fucked it up. Can I go back, please?" she pleadingly asked, unaware until informed by an off-camera voice that her flaw was being broadcast live.
Summoning her composure swiftly, she recommenced the anthem, completing her performance to warm applause from the moderators, candidates, and audience as she gracefully exited the stage. Since then, the clip of her performance has made waves on social media, with viewers drawing parallels to the equally disastrous rendition by former Black Eyed Peas star Fergie at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game.
Taking the online ribbing in stride, Loomis addressed the furor in a Saturday Instagram video, where she addressed "all the craziness" that ensued. "Firstly, I would like to express my sincere apologies to the Free and Equal political team for this unfortunate mishap. It stems from the deepest part of my heart. I didn't mean to tarnish the National Anthem, and I'm incredibly grateful for the chance you guys gave me and for believing in me," she conveyed.
She delved deeper, sharing that singing the National Anthem had always been a source of trepidation for her. "I harbored fears of failing, and, indeed, I did. The world bore witness," she admitted. "So, to anyone who witnessed that, I want you to know that you can transform anything negative into something positive."
In the post's caption, she elaborated further: "I was slightly late and lacked a clear cue, leaving me flustered during the live broadcast! I acknowledge that it wasn't my finest moment, and I'm genuinely sorry if it fell short of expectations. I fully accept responsibility and ask that you don't let this incident tarnish the artist I am and aspire to be.
"I'm profoundly grateful for the opportunity and the immense love and support I've received. I view this as a valuable lesson learned, and I eagerly anticipate returning even stronger!"
Earlier this year, country singer Ingrid Andress faced a backlash for her unsteady performance of the anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. Afterwards, she confessed to being intoxicated during the event and subsequently sought treatment. "I'm not going to sugarcoat it; I was drunk last night," she admitted. "I'm checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need. That wasn't me last night. I apologize to MLB, all the fans, and this country I cherish deeply for that rendition. I'll keep you posted on how rehab is. I hear it's pretty interesting."
