Atlanta’s own Gladys Knight will sing National Anthem at Super Bowl 53

Gladys Knight will sing the National Anthem at Super Bowl 53 in Atlanta on Feb. 3, the NFL announced Thursday.

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"I am proud to use my voice to unite and represent our country in my hometown of Atlanta," the seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer said in a statement. "The NFL recently announced their new social justice platform Inspire Change, and I am honored to be a part of its inaugural year."

Knight, who began her career in the 1950s with her brothers and cousins as Gladys Knight & the Pips, has released 11 studio albums. Also known as the “Empress of Soul,” she has recorded two No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 singles, 11 No. 1 R&B singles and six No. 1 R&B albums.

When the news of her NFL performance broke, many took to Twitter to post their reactions. Many were excited Knight was selected.

Others said they were happy about the announcement, but they hope she uses her platform to stand against racial and social discrimination in support of ex-NFL player Colin Kaepernick.

On the other hand, people questioned her choice to participate in the Super Bowl at all.

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