Many of us look forward to hearing the national anthem played during sporting events. It’s always exciting to see who will be the voice behind it, especially during major games when celebrities are frequently brought in.
The crowd was in for a treat as country music singer Keith Urban went out onto the ice during the Western Conference playoffs. His rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” is giving folks shivers on the internet.
A man with a lot of heart and a lot of talent.
Keith Urban is a country music star who has won four Grammys and built a successful career for himself in the field. In addition to being a judge on American Idol and a coach on The Voice Australia, he is known for his work with charities.
Urban was born in New Zealand, but he is also an American citizen. Since 2006, he has been married to the beautiful actress Nicole Kidman.
This is an excellent way to begin the game.
At Nashville Predators games, fans have witnessed numerous incredible deeds. Many magnificent renditions of the national anthem have been performed in ice arenas, from Carrie Underwood to Vince Gill.
Keith Urban was scheduled to sing the national anthem before the Predators’ game against the Anaheim Ducks at Bridgestone Arena.
It was the first time Urban had ever sung the “Star-Spangled Banner” at a public gathering, according to him.
The audience erupts as Keith Urban steps into the arena and takes a seat in front of the microphone. Of course, he was dressed in a yellow Predators jersey with his name on the back.
As soon as everyone left the arena, Urban started to sing the national anthem in his own country style. The sound of his voice fills the room, and as he sings, it gets stronger.
When he gets to the patriotic line “Oh, say does that star-spangled banner still wave,” the crowd can’t help but cheer. They also cheer when Urban finishes a song with a loud bang:
“O’er the free land and home of the brave?”
Many performers have recorded “The Star-Spangled Banner” over the years, but Urban’s version really hits home. Like the high school wrestler who performed it or the football player whose performance went viral.
Keith Urban took a lot away from the experience.
After his turn on the ice, Urban spoke with NHL Network’s Jon Morosi. He expressed his gratitude for being chosen to perform that night.
“I’ve lived in the United States for 25 years, and no one has ever asked me to sing the national anthem. It was such an honor to do it for the Preds here in Nashville.”
He told Morosi, too:
“It’s nerve-wracking, but most of all, it’s a great honor. Since I’ve lived here for so long, this is one of the proudest things I’ve ever done.
“It was one of the proudest things I’ve ever done.”
Watch the stunning performance below: