Martha Reeves has reacted following the intense backlash over her national anthem performance at a Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) game. The 85-year-old Motown legend acknowledged the performance did not meet her expectations but expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
Martha Reeves addressed criticism after her national anthem performance went viral
Ahead of the August 1 game between the Los Angeles Queens and the New York Heights, Reeves stepped onto the field to perform The Star-Spangled Banner alongside two backup singers, reports People.
The performance footage quickly circulated online, sparking backlash over the trio’s disjointed rendition. One of the netizens wrote, “This wasn’t off-key. This was off-road.” Another commented, “My goodness, that was ear abuse.” Her performance was also compared to Fergie’s infamous 2018 NBA All-Star Game rendition. A user quipped, “Fergie definitely gets a pass after this.”
Responding to critics, the R&B legend told TMZ, “Having just celebrated my 85th birthday, I’ve learned a great deal over more than 60 years of performing live.” She added, “It was an incredible honor to be invited to perform at the inaugural Women’s Professional Baseball League event and to help celebrate such a historic moment for women in sports. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”
Reeves explained that the wet, windy field conditions and the lack of stage monitors made it difficult for her to hear herself during the performance. “While it wasn’t the performance I had hoped for, I’m grateful to have been there in support of these remarkable athletes and this groundbreaking league,” she expressed.
Reeves, lead singer of the Motown girl group Martha and the Vandellas, rose to fame with iconic hits such as Heat Wave and Dancing in the Street. Reeves has received numerous honors throughout her career, including the Rhythm and Blues Foundation’s Pioneer Award, the Spirit of Detroit Award, and the Dick Clark American Soul Award. Her legacy was further celebrated with inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, states Detroit Historical Society.
TELL US- WAS MARTHA REEVES UNFAIRLY CRITICIZED FOR HER NATIONAL ANTHEM PERFORMANCE?
