Alicia Keys' Super Bowl National Anthem Was Long but Perfectly Delivered

Relax traditionalists, Alicia Keys nailed her adaption of the American national anthem at Super Bowl XLVII on Feb. 3.

Her vocal and beautiful rendition of the nation’s anthem captivated New Orleans and the country, a little longer than some may have hoped.

In fact, she set the record for the longest anthem in Super Bowl history, according to USA Today’s Chris Chase.

Keys’ 156.4-second performance surpassed Natalie Cole’s 152-second performance in 1994. Like Keys, Cole also took a controversial approach to the anthem. She deployed a choir who sang the song’s third couplet in the background while she delivered the chorus.

That’s a win for anyone who took the over on the popular prop bet that set the betting line for her performance at over or under 135 seconds (via Bovada).

Her performance also sparked from levity during the 30-plus minute stoppage in play due to a blackout in the third quarter. John Gray, a Twitter user, mused about an idea to fill time while we wait:

"

Let's bring Alicia Keys back to sing something else terrible while we wait for the power to come back on. #SlowestAnthemEver

— John Gray (@RealJohnGray) February 4, 2013"

Before I continue, take a look again at Keys’ performance and see for yourselves.

If 2.5 minutes is too much time to spare, you can just take my word for it.

Keys’ delivery was exceptional as she hit every note precisely, and if you were wondering, she absolutely did not lip-sync the performance.

Critics and traditionalists may see the performance negatively, because other than the added flair and emphasis Keys also added some or her own artistic spin to the song.

It’s a national anthem, though, not an artistic or personal endeavor.

You won’t get an argument here to defend her decision on that front, but it doesn’t take away from her flawless delivery and execution.

Overall, it was a successful and moving performance that was well executed and received by the local audience and seemingly from the majority of the audience watching at home.

At least the ones who took to the web to voice their opinion of it.