Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ingrid Andress set social media alight on Monday when her shaky rendition of the national anthem at the MLB All-Star Home Run Derby sparked criticism and ridicule. She now says, “That wasn't me last night.”
The 32-year-old country musician opened up about her viral moment, revealing in an Instagram post: “I was drunk last night” and saying she will be checking “into a facility today to get the help I need.”
Andress opened the Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, with his rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which went awry almost immediately, according to a video shared on social media.
As he continues, Andress can be heard straining to reach higher notes, falling to the ground and seemingly struggling to catch his breath. Philadelphia Phillies third baseman and Derby competitor Alec Bohm was caught on camera trying unsuccessfully to hold back a smile.
For a handful of social media users, Andress' performance — which was also adorned with off-key riffs — was far from an easy listen.
“Meet Ingrid, she can’t sing, don’t let your dogs hear this,” said one X (formerly Twitter) user, adding that players “were seen covering their mouths to hide their laughter.”
A second X-user joked that Andress’ performance “managed to bridge” the national political divide, and a third slammed the singer, calling her an “embarrassment” and criticizing her outfit. Several X-users also compared Andress to actress Roseanne Barr and singer Fergie, who both failed at “The Star-Spangled Banner” in 1990 and 2018, respectively.
Others were more forgiving, with some criticizing the negativity that was directed at Andress and excusing her poor performance.
“It's a difficult song to perform, especially in front of thousands of people and in millions of homes,” said political commentator Travis Akers.
“I was nervous,” said another X user. “Wish her the best in the future.”
Andress, who is signed to Atlantic Records and Warner Music Nashville, isn’t performing for a national audience for the first time. In August 2022, the “Feel Like This” singer performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and released her sophomore album “Good Person” that same month.
In 2023, Andress performed on NPR’s coveted “Tiny Desk” concert series and launched her Good Person Tour, which included stops in Los Angeles, Boston, Paris, and Berlin, among other major cities. She also opened for Stevie Nicks during several shows of the Fleetwood Mac singer’s tour.
Andress has received a total of four Grammy Award nominations. She earned her first three in 2021 in the categories of country album, country song, and new artist. In 2023, Andress earned a nomination for country duo/group performance for her song “Wishful Drinking.”
On Tuesday, Andress apologized to MLB, “all the fans and this country that I love so much for that performance.”
She added: “I’ll tell you what rehab is like. I heard it’s super fun.”
