Canadian Anthem Singer Alters Lyrics in Protest of Trump's Remarks on 51st State at 4 Nations Face-Off

The singer who performed the Canadian national anthem before the 4 Nations Face-Off championship on Thursday night altered a lyric in “O Canada” in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s ongoing comments suggesting Canada should become the 51st state.

Publicist Adam Gonshor confirmed via email to The Associated Press that Chantal Kreviazuk modified the line from “in all of us command” to “that only us command” due to Trump’s remarks. During the game, Kreviazuk explained to the AP, “I did this because I believe in democracy, and a sovereign nation should not have to defend itself against tyranny and fascism.”

“I grew up listening to music that resonated with both the heart and the moment, shaping my journey as a songwriter and person. I felt it was inauthentic for me to have such a platform and not express my authentic self,” she added.

The talented artist, originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, also inscribed the phrase “that only us command” on her left hand with mascara. She shared an image of this on her Instagram, accompanied by Canadian flag and flexed muscle emojis.

“I wrote it on my hand so if I ever momentarily froze, I could glance at it for inspiration,” Kreviazuk mentioned. “I hope to encourage others to express their truths through their art. Sometimes, it’s essential to communicate honesty through creativity, and that’s what makes it powerful.”

The NHL chose not to comment on this incident. Meanwhile, fans in Boston lightly booed the anthem, though Kreviazuk’s powerful singing quickly overshadowed the noise. In Montreal, fans vocally booed “The Star-Spangled Banner” during U.S. tournament matches at Bell Centre last week, especially before the game against Canada.

The relationship between the two neighboring countries has become increasingly tense in recent weeks, following several comments from Trump suggesting Canada should become the 51st U.S. state amidst ongoing trade conflicts and threats of tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau firmly stated that this will never occur.

The topic of Canada’s potential statehood was brought up during a news briefing with David McGuinty, Canada’s Public Safety Minister. He responded, saying, “It sounds like President Trump is concerned about the outcome of the hockey game. Canada is a sovereign and independent nation, a status we’ve maintained for over 150 years, and it will remain unchanged. The notion of becoming the 51st state is simply not an option.”

On Thursday, Trump reached out to the U.S. team before their morning practice, wishing them luck for the game. Players expressed that it was an honor to receive his message, with defenseman Noah Hanifin stating, “Hopefully we can secure a victory tonight for our country and for Trump.”