By OLIVER SALT

The singer set to perform the black national anthem at this weekend’s Super Bowl became visibly emotional when speaking of her pride in the controversial song.

‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ is traditionally sung during the pregame festivities at the NFL’s end-of-season showpiece, but has been the subject of fierce debate in recent years.

MAGA supporters and Republicans in particular have been calling for the song to be boycotted, with last year’s rendition before Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas sparking a considerable backlash.

Yet amid the controversy, American singer and songwriter Ledisi will be performing the anthem this Sunday in New Orleans, where president Donald Trump will be watching on from the stands.

Ledisi fought back the tears while discussing what the anthem means to her at a press conference days out from Super Bowl LIX, admitting she is ‘overwhelmed’ to be in this position.

‘I feel like I’m in alignment with greatness to stand in this moment and sing that song,’ the 52-year-old said. ‘So that’s all I can say, I’m honored.’

American singer Ledisi is performing the black national anthem at the Super Bowl this weekend

After acknowledging that she was getting emotional, Ledisi revealed she has been ‘choked’ up ever since receiving the offer to perform at the Super Bowl.

‘I think I’m choked up the whole time, even [from] the phone call. It starts there,’ she continued.

‘But I’m used to this in my career, standing in moments, representing the past and the future and the current state of the world, I’m used to that pressure.

‘I just remember who I’m doing it for. I remember my ancestors, I remember everyone waiting for this moment to feel hopeful and to feel represented.

‘So yeah, I do get choked up. I’m choked up the whole time. But I have a job to do.’

Trump, who has heavily condemned diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the US since being re-elected as president, confirmed Tuesday that he will be at this weekend’s game, making him the first sitting president ever to attend the Super Bowl.

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Super Bowl black national anthem singer chokes up at press conference amid MAGA backlash

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