The start of the NFL season has already sparked heated debate—not on the field, but before kickoff.
Two high-profile national anthem performances, one in Brazil and another in Philadelphia, drew sharp criticism from fans on social media, proving that the pre-game tradition is still one of the most scrutinized moments in sports.
Kamasi Washington’s Anthem Hits a Sour Note in Brazil
Jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington, known for blending jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop, performed The Star-Spangled Banner ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers game in São Paulo, marking the NFL’s second regular-season game in Brazil.
Despite his reputation, Washington’s instrumental take on the anthem didn’t sit well with fans.
Social media erupted with criticism, including comments like: “The worst national anthem performance of all time.
Nice going NFL” and “This national anthem is an abject disgrace.”
Others were even more blunt, calling it the worst they had ever heard.
The NFL had tapped Washington as part of a push to celebrate a more global and culturally diverse audience.
Tim Tubito, Senior Director for Global Game Presentation, explained that the league collaborated with YouTube and Latin pop music channels to deliver a unique performance aimed at fans across Brazil and the world.
Boyz II Men Face Backlash in Philadelphia
The controversy didn’t stop in Brazil. Just a day earlier, Boyz II Men performed the national anthem at the Philadelphia Eagles’ season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
The legendary trio, all Philadelphia natives, were similarly slammed by viewers.
Fans on social media weren’t holding back.
One wrote, “This is the worst national anthem to ever start any sports season,” while another commented, “I know how good Boyz II Men could’ve done that.
Holy s** that hurt.”* Some even joked that the performance sounded like a church choir practicing.
Despite the backlash, band member Wanya Morris expressed his pride in performing for his hometown team.
Speaking to the Eagles’ website, he said, “I don’t know how else to be. Philly is always going to be big. That’s why the Eagles do what we do.”
The National Anthem Remains a High-Stakes Tradition
The reactions to both performances highlight just how high the stakes are for the national anthem in NFL games.
Whether in Brazil or Philadelphia, fans expect a certain gravitas, and deviations from the traditional rendition can spark immediate and vocal criticism.
As the NFL continues to expand internationally and experiment with global and culturally diverse performances, it’s clear that pleasing fans on social media is nearly impossible—especially when tradition meets innovation.