Check out VIDEO of Kellie Pickler performing “God Bless America” during the 7th inning stretch of last night’s MLB All Star Game. BONUS: Luke Bryan‘s performance of “The Star Spangled Banner” at the game which generated some controversy because he peeked at his hand several times to check the lyrics.

Kellie Pickler performs “God Bless America”, flub-free. Nice job, Kellie!

Kellie Pickler interview from the MLB site where she discusses singing “God Bless America” at the All Star Game, her new album, and her USO tours:

CLICK for Kellie Pickler Interview

Here’s your national anthem controversy du jour. Luke Bryan has been one of country’s hottest rising stars in the past year, with his current album sailing past a million copies sold in less than a year and his singles generating lots of download sales. While performing the US national anthem last night, he was caught peeking at his hand several times, generating a lot of Twitter conversation. His defenders insisted he was looking at his watch because he was supposed to time the performance for fireworks and a flyover, and that at least he didn’t mess up the lyrics. Others said it didn’t look like he was looking at his watchface. Let’s go to the video tape (sorta):

Via hillgrove100

Luke Bryan tweeted this morning to explain the performance:

Morning everyone. I really wanna explain the national anthem performance from last night.

Tweet 1

I had a few keys words written down to insure myself that I wouldn’t mess up. I just wanted to do my best. I promise it was from the heart.

Tweet 2

If I offended anyone with my approach I sincerely apologize. Anytime I sing the anthem it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest.

Tweet 3

I did check my watch because I knew the stealth bomber would fly over 2 minutes in and I knew a started a little late.

Tweet 4

Being a part of the all star game was amazing and I look forward to the next time I can perform the anthem. Thanks y’all. Love ya

Tweet 5

A simple, straightforward response was probably his best way to go.

Idols know all too well the hazards and pressures of live TV singing, and a couple of our country Idols’s anthem performances have generated heated discussion to (see: this and this). Luke Bryan, to his credit, is not one of those people who has looked down his nose at reality shows. He posted a Youtube video before this season’s finale with a shoutout to his fellow Leesburg, Georgia native Philip Phillips.