In a shocking turn of events, country music artist Ingrid Andress admitted to being drunk during her highly anticipated performance of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby.
The 32-year-old singer-songwriter, known for hit songs like “More Hearts Than Mine” and her Grammy-nominated collaborations, took to social media to apologize for her “not me” rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
In a candid post, Andress acknowledged her inebriated state during the national anthem performance, saying, “I’m not gonna bulls*** y’all, I was drunk last night. I’m checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need. That was not me last night. I apologize to MLB, all the fans, and this country I love so much for that rendition. I’ll let y’all know how rehab is I hear it’s super fun. xo, Ingrid.”
Andress’ performance at the Home Run Derby quickly drew harsh reviews on social media, with fans and viewers expressing their disappointment and disgust. One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, “Wow! @IngridAndress actually did it, she united America,” accompanied by a screenshot of multiple people criticizing her national anthem rendition.
Another viewer commented, “My ears are bleeding. One of the worst national anthem renditions ever,” while a third user drew a comparison to Fergie’s infamous NBA All-Star Game performance, saying, “Ingrid Andress giving Fergie a run for worst national anthem ever performed.”
Prior to this incident, Ingrid Andress had established herself as a rising star in the country music scene. The Colorado-born artist co-wrote hit songs for other artists, including LANY’s “I Didn’t Lie,” Charli XCX’s “Boys,” and Fletcher’s “I Think I’m Growing.” Her own breakthrough single, “More Hearts Than Mine,” peaked at 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnered a 2021 Grammy nomination for Best Country Song.
Despite the controversy surrounding Andress’ national anthem performance, the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby continued as scheduled, with Teoscar Hernández of the Los Angeles Dodgers emerging victorious. Hernández defeated Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals 14-13 in the final round, hitting a total of 49 home runs over the three-round competition.
In the wake of the viral incident, Andress has taken responsibility for her actions, acknowledging the need for professional help. Her decision to check herself into a rehabilitation facility has been met with a mix of sympathy and criticism, as fans and the public grapple with the consequences of her drunken national anthem performance at a high-profile MLB event.
