Chantal Kreviazuk’s Impromptu Political Statement during "O Canada" Rendition
During the pre-game festivities of the 4 Nations Face-Off championship between the United States and Canada on Thursday, Grammy-winning Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk made an impromptu political statement by altering the lyrics of the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada."
"That Only Us Command" Instead of "In All of Us Command"
As Kreviazuk performed the anthem before the game at TD Garden in Boston, she sang "that only us command" instead of the traditional "in all of us command." This subtle change became a clear protest against President Donald Trump’s recent comments suggesting that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States.
An Unplanned Decision During Sound Check
Kreviazuk later revealed on Instagram that the lyric change was not pre-planned. During sound check, she mistakenly sang the wrong words out of habit. Upon realizing the new line, she saw its potential significance amidst the heightened political tensions between the two countries.
The Meaning Behind the Altered Lyrics
Kreviazuk explained her decision on Instagram: "I thought wow – this could mean something so pertinent to our country in this moment with a change in just two words, three syllables. I didn’t dream that such an effect would be had by deciding to go out there and do it. But it really felt like the right thing to do."
Political Tension and Anthem Controversy
The 4 Nations Face-Off was played against a backdrop of increased political tension between the United States and Canada. Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian imports and his remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state sparked strong reactions in Canada.
The national anthems of both countries became focal points during the tournament. Canadian fans in Montreal booed "The Star-Spangled Banner" after the United States defeated Canada in a round-robin game, while American fans in Boston booed the start of Kreviazuk’s rendition of "O Canada."
Crowd Reaction and Kreviazuk’s Message
Despite the initial disapproval, American fans eventually sang along with Kreviazuk’s rendition. The crowd in Boston also erupted in a "U-S-A" chant after Kreviazuk finished.
Kreviazuk emphasized that her lyric change was more than just a symbolic gesture. She wrote on Instagram: "In this very peculiar and potentially consequential moment i truly believe that we must stand up, use our voices and try to protect ourselves. We should express our outrage in the face of any abuses of power. Canada, not unlike Ukraine is a sovereign nation. Period."
Impact and Implications
Kreviazuk’s impromptu political statement sparked a wide range of reactions. Some praised her courage, while others criticized her use of the anthem for political purposes. The incident highlights the growing intersection of sports, politics, and national identity in the current global climate.
