Stephen Wilson Jr. performed the National Anthem before the 2025 NFL Draft and people are still up in arms about it.
There are some that loved it, and others that hated it. Isn’t that just America nowadays? Keyboard warriors always fighting to get their opinion heard.
First of all, his guitar playing is fantastic. And overall, it’s definitely quieter and more subdued than most renditions. So, if you are looking for soaring Whitney Houston-like vocals, you’ll be upset.
But if you see it for what it is: a low-key, understated version…then maybe you’ll appreciate its subtlety more. I personally appreciate the hell out of his performance. Besides most people who complain on social media platforms about a performance of any kind have zero musical talent and have no way of knowing what being in tune even means.
(Yahoo / Rolling Stone)