Should anyone be concerned whether Beyonce lip-synced the “Star Spangled Banner” during the inaugural ceremony? The controversy in case you missed it is in its third day.
What we did see is the pop superstar deliver a dramatic and critically hailed rendition of the national anthem. Does it matter if she pre-recorded it? It is standard procedure for all music to be recorded in advance in order to protect from audio failure, bad weather, etc. at major events. The Super Bowl is a perfect example. The networks sell the sponsorship of the star-loaded half time show to an advertiser for millions of dollars. There is no way that they don't have recorded backup in case of an audio disaster. In the case of Beyonce she recorded with the Marine Corps band on Sunday night.
A Marine Band spokesman confirmed late Tuesday that its musicians just mimed playing their instruments during the National Anthem. But he said he could not say whether Beyonce was lip-syncing or actually singing — and, if she was, whether her mike was on. He added that the band had taped performances with all the inaugural singers — just in case of freezing weather or equipment failure. But the only one used was Beyonce’s
The White House press secretary has no comment except:“I’m glad you guys are focused on the important issues of the day here.”
Again don't be shocked, it is common practice to pre-record vocals for outdoor performances.
ABC reports that Kelly Clarkson, who sang “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee” appeared to say “It’s so hard!” to Beyonce after her fellow diva sang.
They also point out that Whitney Houston’s 1991 rendition of the anthem at the Super Bowl, one of the greatest ever by a pop singer, was lip synched. Plus, at President Obama’s 2009 inauguration, the frigid temperatures and wind prompted cellist Yo-Yo Ma and violinist Itzhak Perlman to use a taped version of “Air and Simple Gifts” on the Capitol steps.
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