Brandi Carlile Elevates ‘America the Beautiful’ Pre-Super Bowl

Brandi Carlile delivered a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful” ahead of Super Bowl LX on Sunday, proving that the majesty of the song extends far beyond its iconic “purple mountain majesties” — it resides in her voice. Widely celebrated for one of the most impressive vocal ranges in contemporary American music, Carlile was a fitting choice for the NFL’s pre-game performance.

In a candid interview with Variety published on Saturday, Carlile admitted to feeling some nerves. “I’m a little worried about it. I put it in a key that’s right at the ceiling there for me, and so I’m going to come out swinging,” she said. True to her words, Carlile reached into her upper registers, infusing the performance with her signature vibrato.

Accompanying herself on acoustic guitar, Carlile was joined by SistaStrings, the sister duo who frequently appear alongside her on recordings and tours. Their strings added a delicate interlude as the broadcast cut to sweeping views of Seattle and New England cityscapes. “It’s going to be a melodically centred version, rather than a rhythmically driven one,” Carlile explained beforehand.

Reflecting on the lyrics penned more than 125 years ago by social activist Katharine Lee Bates, Carlile described the song’s enduring resonance. “I don’t want to put words in her mouth; she was beyond brilliant. But it feels almost like she was feeling the way about the country when she wrote it that I’m feeling today. Just this fragile hope, love, and belief in where it could be, while acknowledging where it’s been… That’s what makes it so American — the total celebration is not yet in order; the prayers still are. The only way to move forward is with belief.”

Addressing viewers who might question celebrating with a patriotic anthem in today’s climate, Carlile emphasised intention. “I definitely don’t want to be seen as glossing over the problems we face. I want to be seen as one of the people helping,” she said.

Commenting on the broader Super Bowl music lineup, which also featured Bad Bunny, Charlie Puth, and Coco Jones, Carlile praised the diversity and inclusivity of the entertainment. “It looks exactly like America — the players, the fans, the demographics. The organisers did a fantastic job. Bad Bunny is incredible. It’s going to be a fabulous halftime show.”

When asked whether she would sport gear for her hometown team, she smiled: “You’re not allowed to. But I’ll have a Seahawks jersey on in my heart.”

Super Bowl LX Pre-Game Musical Highlights

Carlile’s performance demonstrated that national pride and artistic integrity can coexist — a testament to both her talent and the enduring power of Bates’ classic anthem.