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Luke Bryan Defends National Anthem Performance at MLB All-Star Game

Frederick Breedon IV, Getty Images

It's often described as one of the hardest songs to sing live, let alone to deliver in front of a crowded stadium or to a national TV audience tuned into one of the year's most-watched sporting events spotlighting America's favorite pastime. So, you'd think viewers and spectators would give Luke Bryan a break when it came to his performance of the "Star Spangled Banner" before last night's (July 10) Major League Baseball All-Star Game. (Watch Luke's performance below.)

One guy who apparently didn't care for Luke's approach to the performance quickly took to Twitter afterward and shared his opinion (which is quickly overtaking baseball as the national pastime!), tweeting: "Until further notice: because he doesn't have the National Anthem memorized, there will be no more @LukeBryanOnline concerts @ the #BPLounge."

As countless Luke fans came to the singer's defense, Luke himself addressed the issue to explain why folks saw him glancing down at his hand during the performance.

In addition to a quick, personal reply which read, "your being a little ignorant buddy. You have no idea," the "Drunk on You" singer posted a series of tweets today (July 11), which, when collected together, read: "Morning everyone. I really wanna explain the national anthem performance from last night. I had a few keys words written down to insure myself that I wouldn't mess up. I just wanted to do my best. I promise it was from the heart. If I offended anyone with my approach I sincerely apologize. Anytime I sing the anthem it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest. I did check my watch because I knew the stealth bomber would fly over 2 minutes in and I knew a started a little late. Being a part of the all star game was amazing and I look forward to the next time I can perform the anthem. Thanks y'all. Love ya."

While defenders and detractors will no doubt continue to debate the issue, Luke is now headed to Canada for a show in Toronto on Thursday night (July 12). He'll also be in Connecticut and Maryland this weekend. Keep track of his tour schedule here.

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Matt

Too bad he didn't take the time to memorize the lyrics prior to his performance. I'm sure he doesn't write the lyrics to his own songs on his hand.

July 12 2012 at 12:47 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
almedoz

I would rather Luke check his hand and get it right, than be like Christina Aguilera, who thinks we're all sooooo enthralled by the sound coming out of her mouth that we won't notice when she flubs the words.

July 12 2012 at 10:20 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Ashton Lane

Such a shame for him to get this kind of flack, and totally undeserved.
A totally understandable and appropriate thing to do under a very high pressure situation… He sang GREAT too…
Ashton Lane -For 7 free songs visit http://www.ashtonlanemusic.com/7freesongs

July 12 2012 at 2:53 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
francoeger

Don't worry about it Luke,you did just fine. The people who complained are just ignorant. Let them get up there and sing it,I bet they couldn't do it.

July 11 2012 at 7:00 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
kristen

omg people get a life and grow up. he did a good thing instead of looking stupid for not remembering words he did something good so he wouldnt mess up thats great you people who critize nhave way to much time on your hands there is more to worry about in this country then some singer who didnt want to mess up the words to americas song get for real and get a life. people in this country are nuts. if it was you you would do the same god dam thing lets get for real. great job luke you did a good thing shows how much the song means to you i give you props.

July 11 2012 at 5:24 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
JayLynn Townsend

As a singer-songwriter myself, let me tell you sometimes nerves get the best of you. I have forgotten words to some of my very own songs I've written. It happens. He had the honor & privilege of singing our national anthem. He wanted to ensure he didn't mess up. I believe it was just a few years ago Christina A. messed up the words. People razzed her about it. So what he had words written on his hands. He sang it from the heart. I've seen countless of artists forget words to their songs. I dare ANYONE who spouts off about it to try it. It ain't always easy. So give him a break.

July 11 2012 at 4:35 PM Report abuse +1 rate up rate down Reply
fans12xy12

Everyone seems pretty hyped about his performance, checking his watch and his hand...he puts on a pretty good show and I hope this doesn't get him down..right now he is performing with Jason Aldean in a amazing tour: http://www.fansinthestands.com/jason-aldean-tickets.html
Put it behind you Luke and keep performing....

July 11 2012 at 2:54 PM Report abuse +1 rate up rate down Reply

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