Canadian Anthem Singer Draws Attention by Changing Lyrics to Protest Trump’s ’51st State’ Comments at 4 Nations Face-Off

During the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game on Thursday, singer Chantal Kreviazuk performed the Canadian anthem and changed one of the lyrics. She replaced “in all of us command” with “that only us command” in response to comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump about making Canada the 51st state.

Confirming the change, publicist Adam Gonshor told The Associated Press that Kreviazuk’s lyric swap was tied to Trump’s remarks. On her Instagram story, she showcased the new phrase written on her hand, along with Canadian flag and flex emojis.

While fans in Boston lightly booed her performance, their voices were quickly lost as Kreviazuk continued singing. In Montreal, the crowd had a stronger reaction, booing “The Star-Spangled Banner” ahead of U.S. games at the Bell Centre last week, especially before the matchup against Canada.

Growing tensions have marked the relationship between the two countries lately. Since taking office, Trump has suggested that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, particularly in the context of trade issues, including threats of tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has firmly stated that this will not happen.

During a news conference on Thursday, Canada’s Public Safety Minister, David McGuinty, addressed these comments. “Sounds like President Trump is worried about the outcome of the hockey game,” he said. “Canada is a sovereign and independent country. It has been for over 150 years and will remain so. This discussion of 51st state is a non-starter.”

On the same day, Trump reached out to the U.S. hockey team to wish them luck ahead of the game. Players, like defenseman Noah Hanifin, expressed their appreciation, hoping to secure a win for both their country and for Trump.