“The Star-Spangled Banner” is quite possibly the most recognizable song in American culture. You learn it when you’re a kid and you sing it at every sporting event or major assembly. Thus when someone flubs the national anthem, it’s quickly noticed and often receives a plethora of negative feedback. Just ask Christina Aguilera.

So when country singer Luke Bryan sang the anthem at the MLB All-Star Game last night, he wanted to ensure that he didn’t flub the most recognizable song in American history. Watch the video below and you’ll see that at the 00:35 mark he loses performance focus and looks down at his hand. This immediately had plenty of people jumping to the conclusion that he must have had the lyrics written on his hand.

Bryan took to his Twitter account this morning to explain it all.

Morning everyone. I really wanna explain the national anthem performance from last night.

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Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) July 11, 2012

I had a few keys words written down to insure myself that I wouldn't mess up. I just wanted to do my best. I promise it was from the heart.

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Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) July 11, 2012

If I offended anyone with my approach I sincerely apologize. Anytime I sing the anthem it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest.

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Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) July 11, 2012

I did check my watch because I knew the stealth bomber would fly over 2 minutes in and I knew a started a little late.

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Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) July 11, 2012

Being a part of the all star game was amazing and I look forward to the next time I can perform the anthem. Thanks y'all. Love ya

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Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) July 11, 2012

Imagine singing this song in front of a crowd of thousands at a major national event and then figure in the added pressure of the number of people watching at home during the TV broadcast.  With the pressure to get it right, it’s understandable as to why he’d feel the need to write the words on his hand.

Be sure to take our poll and let us know if you feel it’s acceptable to write words of songs on your hands as you perform.