Singer enters rehab after 'drunk' national anthem performance following backlash

Country music star Ingrid Andress has admitted to checking into a rehab facility after delivering an off-key and somewhat slurred rendition of the national anthem while under the influence at the MLB Home Run Derby.

The performance drew widespread criticism online and quickly became national news.

On Tuesday, Andress took to social media to announce her decision to seek help. "I'm not gonna lie y'all, I was drunk last night," she posted.

"I'm checking myself into a facility today to get the help I need. That was not me last night. I apologise to MLB, all the fans, and this country I love so much for that rendition. I'll let y'all know how rehab is. I hear it's super fun. xo, Ingrid."

Her fellow musicians were quick to offer their support, with pop star Julia Michaels writing: "Love you girl. I'm sorry you're going through this And I'm sorry the world can be so cruel. Here for you xx."

Andress, who has been nominated for four Grammy awards, drew comparisons with Fergie after her performance went viral for all the wrong reasons. The former lead singer of the Black-Eyed Peas also struggled with the anthem at the 2020 NBA All-Star Game, leading to smirks from the likes of Steph Curry, reports the Express US .

Despite the criticism, the crowd at the MLB Home Run Derby politely applauded Andress' performance. There were cheers, but intermittent boos could also be heard before Los Angeles Dodgers star Teoscar Hernandez emerged to win his first title.

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Before taking the stage for her rendition of the national anthem, Andress shared a personal update with her followers in a newsletter aiming to "clear the air" about her recent struggles. She disclosed: "I had to part ways with some people who've helped me make a name for myself. It sent me into what my country America calls 'depression' but I'm not a doctor."

Feeling at her lowest, Andress sought solace in returning to her old stomping grounds in Colorado, where she found clarity and pride in her progress: "I was at the lowest point I've ever been, so I decided to go back to where I grew up in Colorado. Sometimes all it takes is a few hours in your hometown to remember who you actually are, and you start to be proud of the person you've become. I hope everyone has their own Colorado to go back to when they're feeling lost."

Andress first made waves on the Billboard Hot 100 with her 2019 single, "More Hearts Than Mine", reaching number 30. The now 32 year old talent was acknowledged with a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song in 2021, while her more recent tune 'Wishful Thinking', performed alongside Sam Hunt, also received Grammy attention last year.

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