It’s not every day that a national anthem performance becomes a major talking point at a sporting event — and for the second year in a row, the MLB Home Run Derby gave us just that.
But this time, it wasn’t a cringe-worthy disaster.
Instead, it was a calm and respectful do-over, courtesy of Grammy-winning artist Heather Headley.
Heather Headley Brings Poise and Grace to the Anthem
Taking the spotlight ahead of the 2025 Home Run Derby, Headley, 50, delivered a slower, more emotional version of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
While some felt the rendition leaned too much into “somber,” most fans agreed it was a welcome step up from the chaos of last year.
Even critics of her toned-down delivery admitted that, compared to the infamous performance in 2024, Headley’s version was practically flawless.
Flashback to 2024: A National Anthem Gone Wrong
Ingrid Andress’s rendition at last year’s event quickly went viral — but not for the right reasons.
The country singer’s painfully off-key, shaky performance left fans stunned, with some calling it “the worst national anthem ever.”
Andress later admitted she was drunk during the performance.
In a candid and emotional post, she announced she’d be checking into rehab to get the help she needed.
That confession sparked a wave of both concern and criticism online, turning the anthem debacle into a full-blown headline.
Fans React to the Glow-Up
Needless to say, fans on social media didn’t miss the opportunity to comment on the dramatic turnaround.
“Probably the best year-over-year improvement you’ll ever see,” one fan joked, sharing side-by-side images of Andress and Headley.
Another added, “At least we didn’t get a repeat of the drunk anthem,” while others poked fun at how Andress’s version was still living rent-free in their minds.
Still, some fans weren’t completely sold on Headley’s approach.
A few thought the final note lacked energy, and one person asked why so many singers treat the anthem “like a funeral song.”
From Public Breakdown to Redemption
After her widely criticized performance, Andress didn’t shy away from owning up to what had happened.
She later revealed that her struggles with alcohol had escalated in the months before the Derby.
She spoke openly on “The Viall Files” podcast about how personal struggles — including a breakup, losing her manager, and her sister moving out — led her into a downward spiral.
She admitted to drinking heavily for months and only realizing how bad things had gotten after watching the viral backlash.
“I thought I nailed it,” she confessed, highlighting just how disconnected she was from reality that night.
Back on Her Feet and Back in the Spotlight
Thankfully, Andress has since bounced back.
In February, she performed a strong, sober version of the anthem for the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, signaling a comeback after months of reflection and rehab.
She’s also back to making music, releasing a new single that’s helping to shift attention back to her talent rather than the headlines.
A Reminder of Grace, Growth, and Second Chances
While Heather Headley’s performance might not make history books, it helped bring a sense of dignity back to the anthem after a turbulent year.
And for Ingrid Andress, the journey from public embarrassment to personal growth is a reminder that even in the spotlight, people are allowed to stumble — and recover.
Let’s just say, this year’s Home Run Derby started on a much stronger note.