The Halftime Show may be the non-sports highlight of the evening, but there are other acts that also attract attention. Think of the Twinkling Star Banner, the US national anthem sung right before the game begins. The choice of the artist is a matter of importance to the state. And for this artist, it is also impressive, because every letter, every note, every movement is meticulously analyzed.
This honor went to Mickey Gayton (38), a country singer from Texas, became the first black woman to be nominated for a Grammy in a country music category in 2020. It’s also the first time a black country artist has been invited to the Super Bowl. Guyton sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” at 1 minute 50 seconds. I did it once in a very fast 1 minute 30 seconds. So it should come as no surprise that bookmakers were used to betting on the length of their performance.
According to those in the know, it was an “intense and emotionally charged” version of the national anthem, with minimal frills, primarily a cappella, accompanied by a small choir and piano. Never miss or miss a word. It was no coincidence that Guyton wore a blue dress in the colors of the American flag. Because yes, that is also closely monitored.
