On May 19, 2015, Kansas City Royals fans were treated to more than just a night of baseball. Before the first pitch was thrown, Damian McGinty — the Northern Irish singer-songwriter and former member of the hit vocal group Celtic Thunder — took to the field to perform the U.S. National Anthem. His heartfelt performance brought the crowd at Kauffman Stadium to its feet and set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
A Voice That Crossed the Atlantic
Though McGinty hails from Derry, Northern Ireland, his career has long connected him to American audiences. Rising to fame as one of the original stars of Celtic Thunder, McGinty became known for his smooth baritone and charismatic stage presence. He later expanded his reach through his role as Rory Flanagan on Glee after winning The Glee Project in 2011, cementing his place as a fan favorite on both sides of the Atlantic.
Performing the National Anthem at a Major League Baseball game was yet another milestone in his journey — one that underscored his unique relationship with the U.S. and its fans.
A Memorable Night at Kauffman Stadium
The May 19 game was already a highly anticipated matchup for Royals fans, but McGinty’s performance added an extra layer of excitement to the evening. Standing at home plate in front of thousands, McGinty delivered a powerful yet measured rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. His rich tone carried through the stadium, blending reverence with artistry in a way that struck a chord with the audience.
As he sang, the crowd rose in unison, with hats removed and hands over hearts. By the final notes, the stadium erupted in cheers, a moment of unity that highlighted both the patriotic spirit of the anthem and the emotional pull of McGinty’s voice.
Fans React
Many in attendance took to social media to share their reactions. Fans praised the performance as “breathtaking,” “beautifully respectful,” and “one of the best renditions of the anthem this season.” For McGinty, the occasion was also a chance to connect with supporters in the Midwest, many of whom had followed his career since his Celtic Thunder days.
“I was honored to sing the National Anthem at the Kansas City Royals game,” McGinty later shared online. “The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, and it’s always humbling to be asked to perform a song that means so much to so many.”
A Growing American Legacy
The performance at Kauffman Stadium was just one chapter in Damian McGinty’s ongoing story in the U.S. From his early tours with Celtic Thunder to his Hollywood break on Glee and his solo projects, McGinty has cultivated a special connection with American audiences. His ability to bridge his Irish roots with his American experiences continues to set him apart in the music world.
For Royals fans, May 19, 2015 will be remembered as more than just a baseball game — it was also the night Damian McGinty’s soaring vocals made a lasting impression in Kansas City.
