According to CBS Sports, Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi has been chosen to sing the Black National Anthem before kickoff. The 52-year-old singer, known for her powerful vocals and soulful performances, has been nominated for a Grammy Award 15 times throughout her career and won her first Grammy for Best Traditional R&B Performance in 2021.

Ledisi will be joined by Otis Jones IV, who will perform the anthem in American Sign Language (ASL), ensuring accessibility for a broader audience. This inclusion aligns with the NFL’s ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within its entertainment segments.

The song, originally written by James Weldon Johnson in 1899, has been a symbol of Black resilience and hope for over a century. It was officially adopted by the NAACP as the “Negro National Anthem” in 1919 and has remained an important piece of American history.

The Super Bowl 59 matchup will see the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles in what promises to be a thrilling showdown. The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are chasing history as they aim for their third consecutive Super Bowl victory, a feat that has never been achieved in the modern NFL era.

Meanwhile, the Eagles are eager to avenge their Super Bowl loss from two years ago, when the Chiefs defeated them in a dramatic comeback. With Jalen Hurts at the helm, the Eagles have remained a dominant force throughout the season, and they are determined to dethrone the reigning champions.

In addition to Ledisi’s performance of the Black National Anthem, Jon Batiste, a New Orleans native and Grammy Award-winning musician, will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Batiste, known for his jazz and R&B fusion, has been a major figure in the music industry, winning Album of the Year at the 2022 Grammy Awards.

Speaking about the opportunity, Batiste expressed his excitement:
“I’m excited to figure out an arrangement that lasts the test of time, and I look forward to sharing it,” he told Entertainment Tonight.

His performance is expected to bring a unique, soulful twist to the National Anthem, adding to the already star-studded lineup of the Super Bowl 59 pregame show.

While the inclusion of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” has been embraced by many, the song has also sparked debate in recent years. Some critics argue that having two national anthems divides rather than unites audiences. However, many Black players and fans have defended its presence, viewing it as a meaningful recognition of African American history and contributions to American culture.

Several prominent figures have spoken out both for and against the anthem’s inclusion. Some believe it honors the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans, while others feel that it further separates rather than brings together fans of all backgrounds.

The NFL has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion, particularly in response to social justice movements in recent years. The league first introduced the Black National Anthem as part of its “Inspire Change” initiative in 2020, following nationwide protests calling for racial equality. Since then, it has been featured in every Super Bowl pregame ceremony.

By inviting artists like Ledisi and Otis Jones IV to perform the song, the NFL continues to make efforts toward recognizing Black culture and heritage on football’s biggest stage. However, whether this decision will remain a permanent part of the Super Bowl tradition remains to be seen.

With Ledisi, Otis Jones IV, and Jon Batiste set to perform, the Super Bowl 59 pregame show is shaping up to be a memorable and historic event. Fans can expect powerful musical performances, alongside the usual high-energy atmosphere leading up to the biggest game of the year.

In addition to the national anthems, Super Bowl 59 will also feature a halftime show headlined by Usher, promising an electrifying performance from the R&B superstar. With so much talent lined up for the event, this year’s Super Bowl is sure to be an unforgettable spectacle both on and off the field.

As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, all eyes will be on New Orleans for what is set to be an epic showdown between the Chiefs and Eagles. The decision to feature the Black National Anthem once again highlights the NFL’s commitment to social awareness and representation, while also reigniting conversations about its place in sports.

Regardless of where fans stand on the issue, one thing is certain—Super Bowl 59 will be one for the history books. With the Chiefs chasing a third straight title, the Eagles seeking redemption, and a star-studded musical lineup, this game promises to deliver action, emotion, and entertainment at the highest level.