Beyonce lip-synched national anthem with US Marine Band at Obama’s inauguration

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Beyonce sings the National Anthem at the ceremonial swearing-in for President Barack Obama at the U.S. Capitol during the 57th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, Monday, Jan. 21, 2013. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON – Beyonce used a pre-recorded voice track to perform her rousing rendition of the national anthem at President Barack Obama’s inauguration, according to the U.S. Marine Band.

A band spokeswoman told news outlets Tuesday that the band was notified at the last minute that Beyonce would perform to the pre-recorded music. The band played their instruments live.

All inaugural music is pre-recorded in case weather conditions or other circumstances could interrupt the program.

A representative for Beyonce did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Kelly Clarkson’s representative said she sang live to perform “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee.”

The use of a recording is typical in big events. In 2009, cellist Yo-Yo Ma was questioned about “hand-synching” for Obama’s first inauguration. Ma said instruments weren’t functioning properly in 19-degree weather.

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