Patti LaBelle's National Anthem at 2026 MLB All-Star Game Draws Mixed Reactions

Legendary R&B vocalist Patti LaBelle performed the national anthem before the 2026 Major League Baseball All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. The 82-year-old, a two-time Grammy winner, sang the Star-Spangled Banner for the opening of the 96th Midsummer Classic, which took place near Independence Hall a week after the United States marked its 250th anniversary.

Viewers noted that LaBelle elongated portions of the anthem and altered the phrasing, prompting a wave of commentary online. Some users described the performance as “horrible” and “disrespectful,” questioning the practice of adding personal style to the anthem. Others defended the singer, citing her long career and age, and praised her effort despite perceived vocal strain.

The ceremony concluded with a fireworks display and a military flyover, and was followed by a performance of “God Bless America” by Jennifer Hudson, which received positive remarks from social-media users. The event also featured patriotic tributes throughout the night, including a recreation of a Fourth of July fireworks scene from the film The Sandlot, a rendition of “America the Beautiful,” and interactions between players and young fans.

"It was horrible. Completely disrespectful to our anthem," one fan wrote on X. "Patti LaBelle is one of our greatest singers, however why people think they have to add their own twist to the National Anthem boggles my mind. Leave it alone," another user added. "Jennifer's voice hits like a national power surge," a commentator posted after Hudson's performance.

The mixed response highlights ongoing debate over artistic interpretation of national symbols at public events.