The 5 Most Shocking Secrets And Record-Breaking Moments Of The Super Bowl National Anthem

The Super Bowl National Anthem is far more than just a song; it is a cultural phenomenon, a political flashpoint, and one of the most unique betting events in the world. As of this current date, December 10, 2025, the music world is still buzzing from the latest pre-game spectacle at Super Bowl LIX, which saw a monumental performance by a New Orleans native. This pre-game ritual has evolved from a simple patriotic tune into a high-stakes performance that sets the emotional tone for the biggest annual sporting event globally.

Every year, the choice of the performer, the style of the rendition, and even the duration of the song become headline news. From the controversial inclusion of multiple anthems to the high-stakes world of prop bets, we dive deep into the secrets and history of the Super Bowl National Anthem, culminating with a look at the latest performer who captivated millions.

Jon Batiste: Full Biography and Profile of the Super Bowl LIX Performer

The honor of performing "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Louisiana, fell to the city's own multi-talented artist, Jon Batiste. His selection was particularly poignant, as the game was held in his hometown at the Caesars Superdome.

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• Full Name: Jonathan Michael Batiste
• Born: November 11, 1986
• Birthplace: Metairie, Louisiana, U.S.
• Musical Lineage: Batiste comes from a long lineage of musicians from the Batiste family of Louisiana, introducing him to music from a young age.
• Education: He attended the Juilliard School in New York City.
• Career Highlights: He first gained widespread public attention as the bandleader and musical director for the house band, Stay Human, on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert* from 2015 to 2022.
• Major Awards: Batiste is a five-time Grammy Award winner and an Academy Award winner, notably winning an Oscar for Best Original Score for the Pixar film *Soul* (2020).
• Super Bowl LIX Performance: Batiste performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the game on February 9, 2025, continuing the tradition of world-class artists gracing the Super Bowl stage.

The High-Stakes World of the National Anthem Over/Under Prop Bet

For many casual viewers and seasoned bettors, the Super Bowl National Anthem is not just a performance; it's a gambling opportunity. The "National Anthem Over/Under" is one of the most popular Super Bowl prop bets, where oddsmakers set a time—usually between 1 minute 50 seconds and 2 minutes 10 seconds—and bettors wager on whether the performance will be longer (Over) or shorter (Under) than the set time.

The outcome is notoriously unpredictable, as the performer's vocal style—whether they draw out notes, add ad-libs, or stay closer to the traditional arrangement—directly impacts the final time.

Recent Over/Under History and Controversial Timing

The results of the bet often hinge on how different sportsbooks time the performance. Some start the clock on the first note, while others begin on the first word. Similarly, the end time can vary, with some stopping at the final word "brave" and others waiting for the concluding instrumental flourish.

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• Super Bowl LIX (2025): The Over/Under line for Jon Batiste's performance was set around 2 minutes 2 seconds (2:02). The official final time was reported to be around 120 seconds (2:00), leading to a victory for 'Under' bettors, though official times can vary by sportsbook.
• Super Bowl LVIII (2024): Reba McEntire’s rendition was a subject of intense scrutiny, with the line typically set around 90 seconds. Her performance was considered a win for 'Under' bettors.
• Super Bowl LVII (2023): Chris Stapleton's blues-tinged performance clocked in at 2 minutes and 2 seconds, hitting the 'Over' for most bettors.

This prop bet adds a unique layer of excitement, turning a moment of solemnity into a thrilling race against the clock for millions of dollars wagered globally.

The Controversial Rise of the Multi-Anthem Pregame

A significant shift in the Super Bowl pregame tradition began recently with the consistent inclusion of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," often referred to as the Black National Anthem, alongside "The Star-Spangled Banner." This decision, first implemented in 2020 following a period of national reckoning on racial justice, has become a recurring element of the pre-game festivities.

The Debate and The Performers

The inclusion of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" has sparked an ongoing debate. Proponents argue it is a necessary acknowledgment of African American history and contributions to the nation, noting that the song has been a key part of Black cultural identity since the NAACP adopted it as its official song in 1919.

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Conversely, critics argue that having a separate anthem is divisive and detracts from the unity symbolized by "The Star-Spangled Banner." This controversy has occasionally led to calls for boycotts and visible protests, such as a Republican politician refusing to stand for the song at Super Bowl LVII.

The NFL has stood by the inclusion, continuing the multi-anthem structure:

• Super Bowl LIX (2025): Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Ledisi performed "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
• Super Bowl LVIII (2024): Acclaimed actress and singer Andra Day performed the song, receiving a rousing ovation from fans.
• Super Bowl LVII (2023): Sheryl Lee Ralph performed the Black National Anthem, with Justina Miles providing a sign-language interpretation.

In addition to these two anthems, the performance of "America the Beautiful" has also become a regular feature, with Post Malone singing it before Super Bowl LVIII in 2024.

The Most Iconic and Unforgettable National Anthem Performances

While the Super Bowl is defined by the game, the pre-game anthem performances often live longer in cultural memory. Certain renditions have set the standard for vocal talent and emotional impact, creating truly unforgettable moments in Super Bowl history.

• Whitney Houston (Super Bowl XXV, 1991): Widely regarded as the greatest Super Bowl National Anthem performance of all time. Performed during the Gulf War, her rendition was a powerful, gospel-infused masterpiece that set the benchmark for all future performers. Her version was so iconic that it was released as a single and charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
• Garth Brooks (Super Bowl XXVII, 1993): The country music legend delivered a powerful, traditional rendition that was almost derailed when a pre-recorded track was nearly played due to a backstage dispute. Brooks insisted on singing live, and the delay almost caused the game to miss its scheduled start time.
• Lady Gaga (Super Bowl 50, 2016): Known for her incredible vocal range, Lady Gaga delivered a flawless, soaring, and highly emotional performance that was praised for its technical brilliance and traditional respect for the song's melody.
• Diana Ross (Super Bowl XVI, 1982): An early example of a major pop star elevating the performance, setting the stage for the massive celebrity spectacles that would follow.

From the subtle movements of the Over/Under betting line to the powerful political statements made by the selection of multiple songs, the Super Bowl National Anthem remains a multifaceted and deeply compelling tradition. The performance is a microcosm of American culture—a blend of patriotism, celebrity, high finance, and ongoing social debate—making it a must-watch event even before the kickoff.