Grammy-nominated country singer Ingrid Andress has announced her decision to enter rehab following a controversial performance of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. The singer admitted to being intoxicated during the performance, which drew widespread criticism.
In a candid statement posted on her verified social media account, Andress wrote, “I’m not going to bulls**t y’all, I was drunk last night.” She went on to apologize to MLB, fans, and “this country I love so much” for her rendition of the anthem. Andress confirmed she would be checking into a facility to “get the help I need,” adding a lighthearted comment about hearing rehab is “super fun.”
Andress’s performance has drawn comparisons to other infamous national anthem renditions, including Roseanne Barr’s 1990 performance at a San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s 2018 NBA All-Star Game performance.
The incident marks a setback in what has been a promising career for the country artist. Andress first gained public attention on NBC’s “The Sing-Off” in 2010 and 2011. She launched her country music career with her debut album “Lady Like” in 2020, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart. Her single “More Hearts Than Mine” hit the Billboard Hot 100 in 2019.
Andress has received multiple Grammy nominations, including for best new artist in 2021, best country album for “Lady Like,” and best country song for “More Hearts Than Mine.” In 2023, her duet “Wishful Drinking” with Sam Hunt earned a nomination for best country duo/group performance.
Prior to this incident, Andress had been promoting her new single “Colorado 9” and upcoming shows. However, her representatives confirmed to CNN that her July 17 Nashville show and July 24 Denver show have been cancelled in light of her rehab announcement.
As Andress takes this step to address her personal challenges, the music industry and her fans await her recovery and potential return to the stage.