Marvin Gaye’s touching rhythm-and-blues version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the 1983 game was initially criticized, but has since gained widespread acceptance as a groundbreaking musical performance. The Forum in nearby Inglewood, California, was the site of arguably the most famous national anthem in sports history during another NBA All-Star Game 35 years ago. Others on social media weren’t as kind, with criticism of the performance outpacing the positive reviews. The Black Eyed Peas singer, born Stacy Ann Ferguson, is from nearby Hacienda Heights, California.įamed basketball commentator Charles Barkley joked that he “needed a cigarette” after Fergie’s performance during the TNT halftime show.įormer Lakers star Shaquille O’Neal leaped to Fergie’s defense, saying: “Fergie, I love you. Green then chuckled to himself after realizing he was on TV.Īfter a forceful finish, Fergie finally got big cheers when she shouted, “Let’s play some basketball!” Golden State All-Star Draymond Green captured Sunday’s mood – and became an instant GIF – when he was shown open-mouthed on the scoreboard and the television broadcast in apparent confusion over the unique vocal stylings. Although Fergie was on pitch, her tempo, musical accompaniment and sexy delivery were not exactly typical for a sporting event or a patriotic song. I love this country and honestly tried my best.”įergie, on her rendition of national anthemĪ low chuckle rumbled through the sold-out arena after she finished the first line of the song with a throaty growl on “the dawn’s early light.”įans throughout the star-studded crowd reacted with varying levels of bemusement and enthusiasm while her languid, 2 +-minute version of the song continued. 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.”įergie’s slow, bluesy rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” on Sunday night wasn’t particularly well received at Staples Center or on social media before the 67th edition of the NBA’s annual showcase. “I’m a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn’t strike the intended tone. Fergie ’s performance of the national anthem at Friday’s NBA All-Star Game didn’t exactly go over well, with her sexy take causing observers to take to Twitter in confusion and dismay. “I’ve always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” the Grammy-winning singer said in a statement Monday. LOS ANGELES - Fergie is apologizing after trying something different with the national anthem at the NBA All-Star Game.

Fergie national anthem