Jennifer Nettles. Photo: Churchill Downs Racetrack
Jennifer Nettles will sing the national anthem at the 145th Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve on Saturday (May 4). Nettle’s performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be broadcast live on NBC and take place in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle immediately prior to the historic race in front of approximately 160,000 fans attending the Derby.
Nettles will also be a guest of the world-famous Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala.
“Jennifer Nettles is a country music and vocal powerhouse,” said Kevin Flanery, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “We are excited and honored for her to perform our national anthem for the millions of viewers and fans around the world who tune in on Derby day.”
Nettles is the eleventh artist to perform the national anthem since Churchill Downs began the tradition in 2009. Notable artists who have performed the national anthem at the Kentucky Derby include Pentatonix (2018), Harry Connick, Jr. (2017), Lady Antebellum (2016), Josh Groban (2015), Jo Dee Messina (2014), Martina McBride (2013), Mary J. Blige (2012), Jordin Sparks (2011), Rascal Flatts (2010) and Lee Ann Rimes (2009).
About the Author
Hollabaugh, a staff writer at MusicRow magazine, has over 20 years of music business experience and has written for publications including American Profile, CMA Close Up, Nashville Arts And Entertainment, The Boot and Country Weekly. She has a Broadcast Journalism and Speech Communication degree from Texas Christian University, (go Horned Frogs), and welcomes your feedback or story ideas at lhollabaugh@musicrow.com.View Author Profile
