Oh Canada: Jann Arden to Sing Anthem at 99th Grey Cup
Published on November 25, 2011 under Canadian Football League (CFL) News Release
VANCOUVER -- Eight-time Juno Award winning singer-songwriter Jann Arden will lead fans from across Canada in the national anthem prior to the kick-off of the 99th Grey Cup here this Sunday.
And Arkells, winners of the Juno for 'New Group of the Year' in 2010, will entertain the fans pre-game, the Canadian Football League announced today.
Arden, born and raised in Springbank, Alberta, and Arkells, formed in Hamilton, Ontario, round out an all-Canadian line-up that includes Pepsi Max Half-Time Skow performers Nickelback, originally from Hanna, Alberta and now based here in Vancouver.
"Nothing brings Canadians together like the Grey Cup, so we are thrilled to bring so much tremendous Canadian talent together to help us celebrate our game, our country and the bond between them," said Mark Cohon, Commissioner of the Canadian Football League.
"The singing of the national anthem at Grey Cup is a great moment for everyone in attendance and we know Jann Arden, a superb talent, will make us all proud. And Arkells, rockers from the home of our Tiger-Cats, will pump up the pre-game excitement."
Arden has received a total of 19 Juno Award nominations, and won eight times. She was Songwriter of the Year in 1995 and 2002, and Female Artist of the Year in 1995 and 2001.
"I'm delighted to be a part of the premier Canadian sporting event of the year and honoured to sing our national anthem to kick off the ceremonies," Arden said.
"Given that I missed training camp and most of the season, not being in match-ready competitive form, I'm thrilled to be making the field through my voice-and possibly relieved that I can leave my helmet and cleats at home."
Arden's sense of humour, and engaging and candid personality, delight audiences. And her vocal dynamics and cool, sultry voice have produced 11 highly acclaimed albums, and 17 Top ten singles, including the concert favourites I Would Die for You, Could I Be Your Girl and Insensitive.
Her latest release, Uncover Me 2, features songs such as This Girl's in Love With You, Love Hurts and Is That All There Is' and one original song, Mr. McLennan. Her new book, Falling Backwards, has been simultaneously released by Random House.
Arkells (Max Kerman, Mike DeAngelis, Dan Griffin, Nick Dika, and Tim Oxford) released their super-charged debut CD, Jackson Square, in 2008. Touring relentlessly coast-to-coast, they have impressed fans and critics alike with their adrenalin-infused live show. The band is currently on tour for their sophomore album "Michigan Left".
"As past champions of the McMaster University intramural flag football league, Arkells couldn't be more excited to participate in the festivities at the 99th Grey Cup. Blue 42! Ready, set, hike!" said band member Max Kerman.
The 99th Grey Cup -- featuring the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and B. C. Lions -- is on TSN and RDS from B.C. Place this Sunday, November 27. 2011. Kick-off is at 6:00 pm ET (3:00 pm PT).
Canadian Football League Stories from November 25, 2011
- 99th Grey Cup Broadcast to CFL Fans Across North America - CFL
- Oh Canada: Jann Arden to Sing Anthem at 99th Grey Cup - CFL
- CFL Continues to Enjoy Renaissance: Cohon - CFL
- Jovon Johnson Named CFL's Most Outstanding Defensive Player - Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
