As the Philadelphia Eagles awaited the kickoff of Super Bowl LVII, the most-watched television event began with a musical bang.
The 57th Super Bowl game kicked off with a stacked list of performers including Abbott Elementary’s Sheryl Lee Ralph, Babyface and Chris Stapleton.
Eight-time GRAMMY Award winner, Chris Stapleton, stayed true to his one-of-a-kind Country crooning style as he gave an impeccable, yet straightforward performance of the national anthem.
Accompanied by only his electric guitar, the 44-year-old captured the crowd with his soulful voice and evoked emotion from many, including Eagles coach, Nick Sirianni, who was shown with tears streaming down his face.
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Ahead of the Anthem, singer, songwriter and producer, Babyface, performed “America the Beautiful.” Performing along with an American-flag themed guitar, Babyface beautifully performed the song showcasing his amazing vocal abilities.
Early last week, the 64-year-old boasted about how shocked he was to receive the opportunity. “I can't believe that I even got asked. It's crazy,” he told Entertainment Tonight.
During the earliest part of the official pregame show, Emmy award winner and OG Dreamgirl, Sheryl Lee Ralph sung “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
The 66-year-old stunned the crowd as she took the field in a red pant suit with dramatic train and sleeves. She delivered a beautiful rendition of the anthem, taking the whole crowd to church. She was backed by a small choir and made the crowd roar after her closing.
She revealed earlier this week in an interview with PEOPLE that she was extremely nervous about this performance. “Oh my God, I was so nervous yesterday. I could hardly move,” she said.