Keith Urban’s stirring “Star-Spangled Banner” performance wows fans at the Predators-Hurricanes game.

On May 16, 2017, country music star Keith Urban delivered his inaugural live performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before Game 3 of the Western Conference Final at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.

Urban, originally from New Zealand and raised in Australia, had resided in the United States for 25 years by that time. Despite his extensive musical career, this event marked his first occasion singing the U.S. national anthem publicly. He expressed that the experience was “one of the proudest moments ever in my life.”

The Nashville Predators had a tradition during the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs of featuring prominent country artists for the national anthem. Urban joined a lineup that included Carrie Underwood, Vince Gill, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan, and Lady Antebellum, all of whom had performed the anthem at Bridgestone Arena during that postseason.

Urban’s rendition was met with enthusiasm from the packed arena. Donning a Predators jersey, he took to the ice and delivered a straightforward yet powerful version of the anthem, which resonated with both fans and players.

Reflecting on the moment, Urban noted that, despite his long tenure in the U.S., he had never been asked to perform the national anthem before. He felt particularly honored to debut this performance in Nashville, a city he considers home and a central hub for his musical career.

The performance was widely praised for its sincerity and emotional impact. Fans and commentators highlighted Urban’s ability to convey deep respect and patriotism through his vocal delivery, enhancing the pre-game atmosphere.

Urban’s participation also underscored the strong connection between Nashville’s music scene and the city’s sports culture. The inclusion of local music icons in the Predators’ playoff games fostered a sense of community pride and unity among fans.

In interviews following the performance, Urban mentioned that he felt a mix of nerves and excitement. He prepared diligently to honor the significance of the anthem and the expectations of the audience, aiming to deliver a rendition that was both respectful and heartfelt.

The event added a memorable chapter to Urban’s career, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep appreciation for his adopted country. It also contributed to the festive and spirited environment of the NHL playoffs, leaving a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.

For those interested in experiencing this performance, a recording is available online, capturing the full rendition and the electrifying atmosphere of the arena.

Overall, Keith Urban’s performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before Game 3 of the Western Conference Final remains a highlight of the 2017 NHL playoffs, reflecting the harmonious blend of sports and music in Nashville.