The Indianapolis 500 is more than just "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing"—it's a showcase of incredible talent, both on and off the track. And when it comes to setting the stage for 500 miles of heart-pounding action, few moments are as iconic as the national anthem performance.
This year, Jordin Sparks is returning to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for her third time singing "The Star-Spangled Banner" ahead of the 109th running of the Indy 500. Sparks first wowed the crowd in 2024, and her powerful vocals have quickly made her a fan favorite at the Brickyard.
But Sparks is just the latest in a long line of musical legends who have lent their voices to this hallowed pre-race tradition. Let's take a look back at some of the most memorable anthem performances at the Indy 500 in recent years.
2025: Jordin Sparks returns for her third appearance, having first performed in 2024 and again in 2025. Her soulful renditions have become a new tradition at the Speedway.
2024: Jordin Sparks made her debut, setting a high bar with her emotional and pitch-perfect performance.
2023: Jewel brought her ethereal folk-pop style to the track, delivering a hauntingly beautiful version of the anthem that had the crowd on its feet.
2022: Jordan Fisher—the multi-talented actor, singer, and dancer from Hamilton—took the stage, blending Broadway polish with genuine star power.
2021: Jimmie Allen brought a country flair to the occasion, adding his signature warmth and energy to the pre-race festivities.
2020: Dr. William Robinson and Dr. Elvis Francois—two medical professionals—stepped up to perform during a unique pandemic-era race, reminding everyone of the heroes both on and off the track.
2019: Kelly Clarkson delivered a powerhouse performance that showcased why she's one of the most versatile vocalists in music. Her rendition was both stirring and pitch-perfect.
2018: Darius Rucker brought his Grammy-winning baritone to the Speedway, giving the anthem a soulful, country-infused twist that had fans humming long after the green flag dropped.
2011: Kelly Clarkson and Seal teamed up for a rare duet, blending their distinctive voices in a performance that remains one of the most talked-about in Indy 500 history.
2016: Florence Henderson—beloved TV mom from The Brady Bunch—brought her timeless charm to the track, proving that great voices never go out of style.
2004: Jessica Simpson took the stage in the early 2000s, adding a pop-star sparkle to the pre-race ceremony.
From Grammy winners to Broadway stars, from country crooners to pop icons, the list of artists who have sung the national anthem at the Indy 500 reads like a who's who of American music. And as Jordin Sparks prepares to take the mic once again, one thing is clear: the tradition of unforgettable anthem performances at the Brickyard is alive and well.
Whether you're watching from the stands or cheering from home, that moment—when the engines go silent and a single voice fills the air—is what makes the Indy 500 truly special. And for fans of both racing and music, it's the perfect way to kick off 500 miles of pure adrenaline.