Louisiana’s Justin Garner returns home to sing the national anthem at Bayou Classic

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BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — The Bayou Classic is back this weekend, and kicking things off is Louisiana’s own Justin Garner, who will take center field in the Caesars Superdome to perform the national anthem. Garner, an HBCU graduate and recording artist, says the moment feels like coming home.

Garner grew up singing in the Baptist church, performing a cappella during early-morning sunrise services, an experience he credits with preparing him for this career milestone.

“I grew up singing in the Baptist Church… sunrise service at 7:30 a.m. We didn’t have a keyboard player or drums, so you had to be able to sing a cappella at any moment. I feel like that prepared me for this moment,” he told Louisiana First News.

As he gears up for the big performance, Garner says self-care and mental preparation are front and center.

“This is the first time I get to perform for my alma mater. I’m an HBCU grad, so this is a full-circle moment to come back home.”

Garner vividly remembers being a child inside the Superdome, mesmerized by the Human Jukebox, the bright lights, and the roaring crowds. On Saturday, he’ll step onto that same field, this time as the featured performer.

“I’m looking forward to walking out there and seeing all my people… that HBCU love. It’s going to be incredible.”

This performance is especially meaningful, as Garner is dedicating it to his late grandmother, Gloria Washington.

“She prayed for this moment for me. I want this performance to be in remembrance of her.”

With nearly two decades in the music industry, Garner says performing at the Bayou Classic represents home, the 225, and he hopes young artists watching feel inspired.

“Never give up. Bet on yourself. Nobody can ever do it like you.”

Garner also shared that his dreams don’t stop here. He’s aiming for a Grammy and hopes to one day sing at the Super Bowl. But first, he’ll make his mark at the Bayou Classic, honoring his community, his roots, and the legacy that shaped him.

You can catch Justin Garner’s performance at the start of the Bayou Classic this Saturday in the Superdome. Be sure to check out his new single, “Hot Light.”

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