Sheryl Lee Ralph to Grace Super Bowl LVII Stage with Stirring Rendition of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’
As the anticipation for Super Bowl LVII reaches a fever pitch, all eyes will be on the phenomenal Sheryl Lee Ralph, the acclaimed star of “Abbott Elementary,” as she prepares to deliver a powerful performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem. This historic moment will unfold this Sunday, adding another layer of significance to one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
In an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife.com just days before her highly anticipated Super Bowl appearance, Sheryl Lee Ralph shared insights into her rigorous preparation. “This will be my last day of these long conversations because I will be on mental rest, vocal rest, all of that in preparation for my two and a half minutes in front of millions of people worldwide!” the Emmy-winning actress revealed. Her dedication underscores the immense pressure and profound honor associated with performing on such a grand stage, demonstrating her commitment to making this a truly unforgettable experience for global audiences.
The esteemed actress, a proud and vocal fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, is scheduled to sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” prior to the kickoff of the monumental game. Her involvement is a testament to the NFL’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within its celebrated events. Sheryl expressed her heartfelt appreciation for this initiative, stating, “I love the fact that the NFL has chosen this year to do its best to work towards diversity and inclusivity, to include the Black National Anthem along with the American National Anthem, along with one of the best songs ever, ‘God Bless America.’ It’s just a beautiful time.” This sentiment highlights the unifying power of music and the importance of acknowledging various cultural contributions within national celebrations.
Known for her incredible versatility and stage presence, the Tony-nominated actress also shared her admiration for fellow Super Bowl LVII performer, Chris Stapleton. She recounted watching his electrifying performance at the Grammy Awards just the Sunday before, admitting, “I loved his whole vibe. It was so great to see him perform. I was like, ‘Okay, I get him exactly.’ I love it.” This mutual appreciation among artists underscores the camaraderie and shared passion for their craft, even amidst the colossal scale of a Super Bowl event where multiple talents converge.
Delving deeper into her meticulous preparation for the anthem, Sheryl Lee Ralph revealed her collaboration with her esteemed musical director, Adam Blackstone. This intensive process has transported her back to her foundational days on Broadway, reminding her of the dedication required for a flawless live performance. “What it actually takes to get up there and give it your all… It’s 2.5 million people around the world,” she emphasized to HollywoodLife. “Oh, you got to be ready because you’ve got to sing it for that person all the way in the back. And they may be way back, on the other side of Africa, because we’re going all around the world! So I’m like, yes, let us be ready for all of that.” Her words paint a vivid picture of the global reach of the Super Bowl and the personal responsibility she feels to connect with every single viewer, no matter where they are. This commitment to excellence is a hallmark of her illustrious career, from her groundbreaking role in “Dreamgirls” to her recent triumph in “Abbott Elementary.”
Beyond her musical preparations, Sheryl Lee Ralph proudly expressed her unwavering support for the Philadelphia Eagles, who are set to clash with the Kansas City Chiefs this weekend. Her connection to the team runs deep, not only through personal affinity but also through family ties. She humorously reminded everyone that her husband, Vincent Hughes, currently serves Philadelphia County in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. “How could I not root for the Eagles?!” she exclaimed with a laugh. “Fly Eagles, fly! Come on now, I’m rooting for that green and white!” Her passionate endorsement adds a personal touch to the highly anticipated sporting event, intertwining her professional duties with her personal allegiances.
The inclusion of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” in the Super Bowl pre-game ceremony is a momentous occasion that reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater representation and recognition. Penned by James Weldon Johnson and set to music by his brother J. Rosamond Johnson in 1900, the song has long been a powerful anthem for African American communities, embodying themes of hope, resilience, and identity. Its performance on a platform as immense as the Super Bowl not only honors its historical significance but also amplifies its message to an unparalleled global audience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of its profound impact. Sheryl Lee Ralph, with her powerful voice and dignified presence, is the perfect artist to convey the gravitas and beauty of this iconic piece of music, ensuring its message resonates far and wide.
This appearance at Super Bowl LVII further solidifies Sheryl Lee Ralph’s status as a cultural icon. Her career, spanning decades in film, television, and theater, has been marked by memorable performances and groundbreaking achievements. From her Tony-nominated role as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of “Dreamgirls” to her recent Emmy win for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for “Abbott Elementary,” she consistently delivers performances that are both impactful and inspiring. Her decision to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” on such a national stage is not just another gig; it’s a profound statement, an embodiment of her legacy as an artist who uses her platform for meaningful expression and social resonance.
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In addition to her iconic performance, Sheryl Lee Ralph has also partnered with Microban 24, a leading 3-in-1 sanitizing product designed to clean, sanitize, and disinfect surfaces within the home. This collaboration stems from a deeply personal conviction, especially highlighted during recent global health crises. “When Covid hit, my focus was all about finding ways to keep it clean and kill whatever was out there so that the whole family could stay safe,” she shared with HollywoodLife. “Microban 24 really works.” This partnership underscores the importance of a healthy environment, a theme that resonates with preparing oneself for a major public event. Microban 24’s unique formulation ensures that it keeps killing 99.9% of bacteria on hard, non-food contact surfaces, touch after touch, for up to 24 hours when used as directed. Its ease of use – simply “spray & walk away” – provides continuous protection, allowing individuals like Sheryl Lee Ralph to maintain a clean home environment as they balance demanding schedules and public appearances. This commitment to health and safety is yet another facet of her holistic approach to readiness, whether it’s for a Super Bowl performance or everyday life.
As Super Bowl LVII draws near, the excitement surrounding Sheryl Lee Ralph’s rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is palpable. Her performance is not merely an act of singing; it is a profound cultural statement, a celebration of history, and a testament to her enduring artistry. With her vocal and mental preparations meticulously in place, coupled with her heartfelt connection to the music and the moment, audiences worldwide are poised to witness a truly magnificent and memorable pre-game spectacle.