At the close of the interview, Burleson asked whether the singer is rooting for the Carolina Panthers or Denver Broncos at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. “I am here to root for everybody”, she responds.
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Most cite Whitney Houston’s performance of the national anthem in 1991 as one of the best Super Bowl anthem performances ever.
Smith is the music director for the Brian Newman Quintet, a group that frequently accompanies Gaga for her jazz performances and recordings, and also serves as the pianist and organist for Gaga’s quintet.
The last two anthems were sung by Tony-winning Broadway star and actress Idina Menzel, and opera legend Renee Fleming. The singer, who has previously has showcased her vocal abilities at the likes of the Grammys and the Academy Awards, should feel right at home before an audience of 100 million. Gaga trailed off, adding that she watched and rewatched singers performing the song as a little girl.
But Gaga is not the first diva to honor our nation at the Super Bowl. Prior to that, we had six years of female pop divas taking the mic, including Keys, Christina Aguilera, and four “American Idol” alums: Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Jordin Sparks and Carrie Underwood.
The NFL made the official announcement via their Twitter page.
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The Super Bowl airs on CBS at 6:30 pm ET on February 7.
