BREAKING NEWS: The Detroit Lions Announce New National Anthem Singers at the Commanders – Lions NFL Divisional Round Game
Detroit, MI – January 18, 2025
In a surprising and exciting development ahead of the highly anticipated NFL Divisional Round playoff game between the Detroit Lions and the Washington Commanders, the Lions have announced a new set of national anthem singers for the game this weekend. The announcement, made earlier today, has generated significant buzz among fans and the local community.
The Lions will feature not one, but two unique performances of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Ford Field on Saturday night. The franchise revealed that renowned Detroit-based singer and activist, Aretha Franklin’s granddaughter, Grace Franklin, and rising star rapper and local legend, Big Sean, will both take turns leading the anthem before the game kicks off.
Grace Franklin, following in her grandmother’s iconic footsteps, is set to deliver a soulful and stirring rendition that has already stirred excitement among fans. Franklin, whose vocal talents have earned her recognition in the music world, will be making her NFL debut with this high-profile performance. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Grace’s performance is expected to honor both Detroit’s rich musical heritage and the pride of its football team.
Meanwhile, Big Sean, the Grammy-winning rapper who was born and raised in Detroit, will offer a more modern twist to the traditional anthem. His performance is anticipated to fuse his musical style with the deep-rooted traditions of the National Anthem, bringing a unique flair that reflects both his musical artistry and his connection to Detroit’s sports culture. The rapper has been vocal about his support for the Lions over the years, and his involvement in the event has further ignited local enthusiasm.
“This is a special moment for us, both as Detroiters and as a football family,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell during the announcement. “Aretha Franklin is an iconic symbol of our city’s legacy, and to have her granddaughter perform is a beautiful way to pay tribute to that. Pairing it with Big Sean’s energy will create an unforgettable experience for our fans.”
The choice of these two artists has been widely praised, with fans expressing excitement about the blend of soulful tradition and contemporary culture. “This is going to be fire,” said one Detroit-area fan on social media. “Grace and Big Sean are two legends in the making, and I can’t wait to see what they bring to Ford Field. It’s going to be electric!”
The Lions, who are coming off a dominant season and a thrilling victory in the Wild Card round, are gearing up for a highly competitive match against the Washington Commanders. Detroit fans are hoping that this star-studded pregame performance will set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown in the postseason.
Local community leaders have also praised the Lions for their inclusive approach to the anthem, highlighting the significance of celebrating Detroit’s diverse musical scene and bringing together different generations and genres of music. The performances will surely add another layer of excitement to an already high-stakes game.
With the divisional round on the line, all eyes will be on Ford Field this Saturday night, not just for the game itself but also for the much-anticipated national anthem performances. As fans fill the stadium and tune in from across the country, it’s clear that Detroit is ready to make its mark—both on the field and through its powerful musical heritage.
Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to the Lions’ playoff battle with the Washington Commanders!