The Reason Steven Tyler Had To Apologize Veterans And Aerosmith Fans

Steven Tyler is no doubt one of the most iconic frontmen in the history of rock. In the 1970s, he became prominent as the lead singer of Aerosmith, in which he also plays percussion, piano, and harmonica. Moreover, Tyler is often named the ‘Demon Of Screamin’ due to his wide vocal range and high screams.

Tyler had a successful career with the band, but they started losing their popularity due to his drug and alcohol abuse around the late 1970s and early 1980s. However, Tyler wanted to get clean and achieve the band’s previous success again, so he went to drug rehabilitation. After that, Aerosmith rose to prominence again and embarked on long tours, made appearances on various platforms, and released several music videos.

Although Aerosmith made a comeback, Steven Tyler stirred up some trouble. In 2009 and 2010, he fell off the stage at a performance, relapsed with prescription drugs, and signed on to American Idol without informing his bandmates. As a result, these sparked tension between him and other Aerosmith members. However, Tyler was also got involved in another incident and had to apologize to his fans and veterans. Let’s learn the reason why he had to do so.

Steven Tyler Changed The Words Of The National Anthem And Received Negative Reactions

In March 2001, Aerosmith released the album ‘Just Push Play’ and was kicking off their tour to promote the album. In the same year, Speedway invited Steven Tyler to perform ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ for the pre-race ceremonies at the Indianapolis 500. However, the performance turned out to be one of the worst renditions of the U.S. National Anthem.

Tyler began the song with a harmonica solo and left it to the crowd as he finished. Moreover, he sang the National Anthem in his own style, with a raspy voice and vocal screams. The musician also altered the last line from ‘Land of the free and the home of the brave’ to ‘Land of the free and the home of the Indianapolis 500.

Upon witnessing that, the crowd, radio, and television commentators felt offended. Besides, it was the Memorial Day holiday, and military Medal of Honor recipients were there. Therefore, the performance received a huge negative response.

After receiving a huge public backlash, Steven Tyler had to apologize to his fans and veterans. Therefore, the musician issued a public apology. As reported by Pro Quo, Tyler said his big mouth always gets him in trouble, and he meant no offense. Following that, he exclaimed he is proud to be an American and to live in the home of the brave.

According to Pro Quo, Steven Tyler said that:

“I got in trouble my whole life for having a big mouth. I’m very proud to be an American, and live in the home of the brave.”

On the other hand, Speedway president Tony George also released a statement to apologize. He stated that they are sorry and they didn’t intend to be disrespectful. George also said that they all respect the sacrifices veterans have made.

As reported by Idobi, Tony George said:

“While we are certainly sorry that some were offended, it was neither our intention nor that of Mr. Tyler to be disrespectful. All of us have the utmost respect for the sacrifice our veterans have made for us.”

Below, you can watch Steven Tyler’s performance of the National Anthem at the Indianapolis 500.