Ledisi to Perform ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ at Super Bowl LVIII: A Celebration or a Source of Controversy?
As the anticipation for Super Bowl LVIII builds, music will once again take center stage alongside football. This year, Grammy-winning artist Ledisi is set to perform Lift Every Voice and Sing, commonly referred to as the “Black National Anthem,” before the championship game kicks off on February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
The announcement has sparked excitement among many fans who admire Ledisi’s powerhouse vocals and deep connection to the song’s historical significance. However, it has also reignited a familiar debate about the role of Lift Every Voice and Sing at a national event like the Super Bowl. While some see it as a meaningful tribute to Black history and culture, others question whether performing the song alongside The Star-Spangled Banner promotes unity or division.
With the Super Bowl’s massive viewership, Ledisi’s rendition is bound to make an impact. But will it be one of inspiration, controversy, or both?
Ledisi: A Perfect Voice for a Powerful Song
Ledisi is no stranger to the spotlight. The New Orleans-born singer has built a reputation as one of the most powerful vocalists in R&B and soul music, earning multiple Grammy nominations and a win for Best Traditional R&B Performance in 2021.
Her ability to blend jazz, gospel, and R&B elements has made her a beloved figure in the music industry, and her performances often carry a sense of deep emotion and storytelling. Given her vocal prowess and connection to themes of resilience and empowerment, she is widely considered an ideal choice to perform Lift Every Voice and Sing.
“I am honored to perform a song that has meant so much to so many people for generations,” Ledisi said in a statement following the NFL’s announcement. “Lift Every Voice and Sing is a song of hope, perseverance, and unity—values that are important to celebrate on a stage as big as the Super Bowl.”
Her performance will follow in the footsteps of past artists who have sung the song at the Super Bowl, including Alicia Keys, Mary Mary, and Sheryl Lee Ralph.
The History and Significance of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’
Lift Every Voice and Sing has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. Originally a poem written by James Weldon Johnson in 1900, it was later set to music by his brother, J. Rosamond Johnson. The song quickly became a symbol of hope, resilience, and progress for Black Americans during the struggles of segregation and the fight for civil rights.
By the 1920s, Lift Every Voice and Sing had been embraced as the official anthem of the NAACP and became a rallying cry for equality. Over the decades, it has been performed at key moments in American history, including during the civil rights movement and presidential inaugurations.
For many Black Americans, the song holds deep cultural significance. Its lyrics speak to the pain of the past while emphasizing hope for a better future:
“Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us.”
These words resonate across generations, making Lift Every Voice and Sing more than just a song—it is a powerful statement of resilience and pride.
The NFL’s Inclusion of the Song and the Reaction It Has Sparked
The NFL first included Lift Every Voice and Sing in its Super Bowl pre-game lineup in 2021, as part of its broader efforts to promote social justice following the protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd. The move was intended to acknowledge the Black community’s contributions to American history and culture, aligning with the league’s “Inspire Change” initiative.
Since then, the song has been performed at every Super Bowl, a tradition that has been met with mixed reactions.
Supporters argue that the inclusion of Lift Every Voice and Sing is a step toward greater representation and recognition of Black history in mainstream American culture. They view it as an acknowledgment of the systemic challenges Black Americans have faced and a celebration of progress.
Critics, however, contend that having two national anthems at the Super Bowl sends a divisive message. Some believe that The Star-Spangled Banner should be the sole anthem performed at national sporting events, arguing that adding another song separates rather than unites Americans. Others claim that the NFL’s decision to include Lift Every Voice and Sing is performative rather than a genuine commitment to racial equality.
The debate over the song’s inclusion reflects broader national conversations about race, unity, and identity in America.
Social Media and Political Reactions
With the Super Bowl being one of the most-watched television events of the year, reactions to Ledisi’s performance are expected to flood social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
In past years, figures across the political spectrum have weighed in on the song’s presence at the Super Bowl. Some conservative commentators have criticized the decision, arguing that the Super Bowl should focus solely on football and entertainment rather than social or political statements. Others have taken a stronger stance, questioning whether a “separate anthem” is necessary at all.
Meanwhile, many in the Black community and beyond have applauded the move, highlighting the historical erasure of Black contributions in mainstream narratives. For them, the performance of Lift Every Voice and Sing is a long-overdue recognition of Black history and resilience.
As the performance approaches, it is likely that political commentators, athletes, and celebrities will share their perspectives, fueling further debate on an already polarizing issue.
The Broader Impact on Music and Sports
Beyond the Super Bowl, the inclusion of Lift Every Voice and Sing raises questions about the evolving role of music in sports. Over the past few years, the relationship between activism and athletics has become increasingly prominent, with athletes and leagues using their platforms to address social justice issues.
For example, the NBA has incorporated messages of racial justice into its games, and the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team has been vocal about issues like gender equality and racial justice. The NFL’s decision to include Lift Every Voice and Sing fits into this larger trend of sports embracing social and cultural conversations.
However, this shift has also faced resistance from some fans who prefer to keep political and social issues separate from sports entertainment. The question remains: should major sporting events like the Super Bowl continue to feature songs and performances that highlight racial and social issues, or should they remain focused solely on the game?
What to Expect from Ledisi’s Performance
Given Ledisi’s vocal ability and deep understanding of the song’s significance, her performance is expected to be a powerful moment. She may incorporate elements of gospel and soul, drawing from the song’s origins in Black musical traditions.
The production value is also likely to be high, with potential backing choirs or orchestral arrangements adding to the emotional depth of the performance. In past years, artists who have performed Lift Every Voice and Sing at the Super Bowl have delivered stirring renditions that left a lasting impact on audiences.
In addition to Ledisi’s performance, country star Reba McEntire will sing The Star-Spangled Banner, and Post Malone will perform America the Beautiful, ensuring a diverse musical lineup for the event.
Final Thoughts: A Performance to Remember?
As Super Bowl LVIII approaches, Ledisi’s performance of Lift Every Voice and Sing is sure to be a highlight of the pre-game festivities. While it will undoubtedly be a moving tribute for many, it also has the potential to reignite debates about race, unity, and the role of music in sports.
Regardless of where one stands on the issue, one thing is certain: millions of viewers will be watching, and Ledisi’s performance will add another chapter to the evolving conversation about representation, history, and culture in American sports.
Super Bowl LVIII will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+, with kickoff set for 6:30 PM ET.
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