The Kentucky Derby is an event held at Churchhill Downs that has taken place for over a century.  The event which features some of the fastest, strongest horses vying for the crown is heavily attended by America’s rich and famous donning hats of every shade and color.

This year’s Derby featured a little more color than just the hats, R&B singer Mary J. Blige was chosen to perform this year’s National Anthem before 150,000 screaming race fans.   Though her performance went off without a hitch, organizers of the event fielded calls and emails, days before the event, from attendees voicing their displeasure at MJB being chosen.  Among the complaints were concerns that Mary might jazz up the song too much.  Thankfully, a rep from the Kentucky Derby brushed off these complaints with a statement that read:

‘We’ve hosted the Derby for 137 years, we’re quick to find out that you can’t please everybody all the time but Mary J. Blige is a very exciting and talented individual that we can’t wait to host on Derby day’.

Check out the performance for yourself below: