What to Know About Ingrid Andress Whose National Anthem Rendition Sparked Controversy

Ingrid Andress kicked off the 2024 Home Run Derby in Arlington, Texas, on Monday with her performance of the National Anthem. Ever since, video of the performance has been circulating all over social media and causing a major stir—but probably not for the reasons she was hoping.

Andress made her first statement about her performance Tuesday, but if this is the first you’re hearing of the singer, you might be wondering: Who is Ingrid Andress? Here’s what you need to know, from how she got her start to her recent public apology.

How Ingrid Andress Became a Country Star

Whether or not Ingrid Andress is on your playlist, she has made a name for herself in the world of country music over the past few years. In 2020, Ingrid released her first full-length solo album, Lady Like. One year earlier, her single “More Hearts Than Mine” peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 2021, her single “Wishful Drinking” featuring Sam Hunt also made climbed its way up the chart, not to mention her hits on the country charts.

Andress has even been recognized for her musical prowess by one of the most respected organizations in the industry: the Recording Academy. In 2021, she was nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys. Her album Lady Like was also nominated for Best Country Album, and her single “More Hearts Than Mine” was nominated for Best Country Song. She earned a fourth Grammy nomination in the Best Country Duo/ Group category for “Wishful Drinking” in 2023 alongside Sam Hunt.

As her Instagram bio puts it, she is a “4-time Grammy losing singer songwriter,” as she didn’t win any of the categories she was nominated for (though, of course, being nominated is itself a huge accomplishment).

Ingrid Andress’ National Anthem Performance

Performing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at a sporting event is a right of passage for any rising star, and Andress stepped up to the plate. She opted for an a cappella version of the classic tune, which can bring even seasoned artists to their knees (we all remember Fergie...).

Although she didn’t have any past National Anthem performances to back her up, she does have familial ties to the MLB. Her father, Brad Andress, worked for MLB teams including the Detroit Tigers and the Colorado Rockies for nearly two decades as a strength and conditioning coach.

Who has Ingrid Andress collaborated with?

While her family connection might have helped her secure this gig, her work with big-name artists certainly doesn’t hurt her credibility. Andress has toured with artists including Stevie Nicks, Keith Urban, Dan + Shay, and Tim McGraw.

As a talented songwriter, Ingrid has also written songs for musicians including Charli xcx, Bebe Rexha, FLETCHER, Alana Springsteen, LANY, and more. The National Anthem was a solo effort, but Andress is also known for her collaborations. She has collaborated with Sam Hunt, Teddy Swims, Marc Scibilia, and Breland.

Does Ingrid Andress have a reality show?

Everyone is talking about Inrgrid’s recent cable television appearance, but have we seen her on TV before? Ingrid got her start on NBC back in 2010. The now-32-year-old appeared on the second season of The Sing Off, an a cappella singing competition, as a part of the group Pitch Slapped. She returned to the show for Season 3, notably won by Pentatonix, as a part of the group Delilah. Although her troop didn’t win in either season, her appearance on the show effectively jump-started her career.

Fan Reactions to Ingrid Andress’s Performance and Her Apology

Social media hasn’t been kind the Ingrid Andress in the hours following her National Anthem performance. X (formerly Twitter) is littered with memes comparing Ingrid to Fergie and poking fun at her performance.

Several X users questioned whether Ingrid was sober during her performance, and Tuesday, we got our answer: “I’m not gonna bullsh–– 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 that I love so much for that rendition. I’ll let y’all know how rehab is I hear it’s super fun,” Andress wrote on Instagram.

The comments are split between supporters and naysayers on Andress’ apology post. “It will be ok! You are doing what you need to do. A proud moment” and “I’m sending you love, Ingrid. Being this open takes a lot. You’ve got this. Hang in there. ??,” Kristin Chenoweth and Carly Pearce wrote in support.

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