Fergie says National Anthem at NBA All-Star Game 'didn't strike the intended tone'

Viewers Baffled By Fergie's National Anthem Performance At The NBA All-Star Game

Fergie is responding to critics of her sultry, jazzy rendition of the national anthem at the NBA All-Star Game. The singer issued a statement to TMZ, saying her version at Sunday night's game in Los Angeles "didn't strike the intended tone."

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“I’ve always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” the statement said. “I’m a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn't strike the intended tone. I love this country and honestly tried my best.”

WATCH: Fergie’s national anthem performance at the NBA All-Star Game baffles viewers

Wearing an off-the-shoulder dress, Fergie sang the national anthem with a number of ad-libs and some lengthy notes. At one point, Golden State Warriors player  Draymond Green could be seen stifling a laugh, and so could late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel.

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 18:  Singer Fergie sings the national anthem prior to  The 67th NBA All-Star Game: Team LeBron Vs. Team Stephen at Staples Center on February 18, 2018 in Los Angeles, California.  (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)

Credit: Allen Berezovsky

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Credit: Allen Berezovsky

One person who had some words of support for Fergie was Mariah Carey, who told TMZ cameras the singer needn't listen to negativity.

“Darling, nobody needs to listen to that,” she said.

Fergie’s national anthem performance can be watched below.