Fergie Is Sorry About That National Anthem Fiasco

Fergie has responded to widespread criticism surrounding her decidedly non-traditional rendition of the national anthem at Sunday's NBA All-Star game. The 42-year-old singer attempted a slowed down, jazzier version of the song in what she now admits was an artistic risk gone awry, per People. “I’ve always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” she said in a statement. “I’m a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn’t strike the intended tone. I love this country and honestly tried my best.” Fergie's performance was panned online almost immediately and was compared by some to "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" as sung by Marilyn Monroe to John F. Kennedy in 1962, only "screechier," writes Variety. (More Fergie stories.)