When Lauren Daigle takes the stage at the Caesars Superdome for the Super Bowl this Sunday in New Orleans, it won’t be her first performance in the iconic venue.

In 2020, Daigle, a past student of Louisiana State University, sang the national anthem there before the College Football Playoff Championship game, where her cherished LSU Tigers triumphed over the Clemson Tigers.

This time around, Daigle will be performing “America the Beautiful” alongside fellow Louisianan Trombone Shorty (Troy Andrews), but the significance of this performance is even greater. She is part of a lineup that celebrates her home state during the event featuring the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, with Louisiana natives Jon Batiste and Ledisi also sharing the stage for the national anthem and the Black national anthem, respectively. (The halftime show will be led by California-born Kendrick Lamar.)

At 33 years old, Daigle has spent the last ten years merging Christian and pop genres. Tracks like “Trust in You” and “Hold on to Me” dominated the Christian music charts, while her Grammy-winning hit “You Say” and the recent heartfelt song “Thank God I Do” have gained traction in mainstream media.

The lively and dynamic Daigle took a moment after her Super Bowl press conference this week to chat with YSL News about what fans can expect from her and Trombone Shorty’s rendition of the classic song, her admiration for Batiste, and her support for the Chiefs (which she attributes to her grandmother).

Question: Your creative partnership with Trombone Shorty stretches back to your performance together at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2022. How has that experience influenced your collaboration?

Lauren Daigle: Absolutely, that was a significant moment for us. We’ve participated in some charity events, and he starred in my video for “These are the Days” last year. Our journey has allowed us to support each other’s efforts to infuse the essence of New Orleans into what we create. I feel like I genuinely have a brother in him.

What unique New Orleans elements are you bringing to “America the Beautiful”?

I hail from Lafayette, which is about two hours from New Orleans, and Troy is from New Orleans itself. There are many music similarities between zydeco from Lafayette and the jazz and brass influences of New Orleans, and sometimes their rhythms overlap. I must commend Troy and our music director for devising an arrangement that highlights both musical traditions. It’s a very rhythmic interpretation that will surely inspire you to dance.

This may not be your first time at the Superdome, but do you think it might be your most anxiety-inducing?

When you’re in front of so many people, the feeling of unity and joy tends to take over. My nerves usually fade away as the moment becomes bigger than myself. I’m thrilled to contribute to that energy.

What did you think of Carrie Underwood’s performance of “America the Beautiful” at the presidential inauguration?

That was absolutely breathtaking! I felt immense pride for her. She demonstrated the importance of dedicating oneself to their craft over time. Her tribute to the nation transcended political views; everyone recognized it as a memorable moment. Despite facing a technical issue, she remained composed and delivered a stunning performance… It serves as a reminder to younger generations that challenges can happen to anyone, but it’s how you respond that truly matters.

Do you have any favorite performances from past Super Bowls, including the anthem or halftime shows?

Whitney Houston’s rendition of the national anthem in 1991 is iconic. It stands unparalleled. You can see the dedication she put into her craft over the years. I also adored Chris Stapleton’s version of the national anthem in 2023, especially with his guitar adding a genuine, grassroots atmosphere and that clever run in the middle.

You’ve shared a long-standing friendship with Jon Batiste. What insights have you gained from him?

I can’t express how much I cherish him. Being around him is like a breath of fresh air, and his wife, Suleika Jaouad, is delightful as well. Jon is a true source of inspiration, an exceptional talent, and a generational genius… I admire how he unites diverse individuals from various backgrounds.

Are you a college football fan in addition to following the NFL?

I am definitely a passionate LSU supporter, but I do enjoy the NFL. I obviously love the New Orleans Saints, but I’m also a fan of the Cincinnati Bengals, particularly because of (former LSU quarterback) Joe Burrow. I remember being invited to sing the anthem at the LSU championship in 2020, not knowing who would be playing at that time. When it ended up being LSU, I felt incredibly blessed. It was a privilege to perform in my hometown, and even more exciting to do it for my team.

Who are you rooting for to win the Super Bowl?

I hope the Chiefs win because they often face criticism when they excel, yet they’ve put in tremendous effort, and achieving a three-peat would be remarkable for the NFL and set a new standard. My grandmother, who is 91 and hails from Lawrence, Kansas, sent us a text cheering for “Chiefs!” with smiley faces after their last victory, so I want them to win for her.

What are your plans for after the Super Bowl excitement settles down?

So far this year, I’ve found some time to sit at the piano and create new music. I also aspire to attend flight school to earn my pilot’s license. I spoke with (fellow musician) Drew Holcomb, who has his license, and Ellie, his wife, mentioned how much more family time he gets due to his ability to fly home. I would love that chance to spend more time with family and friends.