Before engines were started on March 1, 2020’s NASCAR Xfinity Series Race, the Auto Club 400, drivers stood outside their race cars to salute the flag while the national anthem was being sung.
One little girl named Malea Emma faced what could have been her largest live crowd to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Fontana’s Auto Club Speedway.
If you think she might look familiar, you’re right! When she was seven years old, she went viral for singing the national anthem before an LA Galaxy soccer game in 2018.
Her video gained so much attention that she appeared on Good Morning America and sang with Dreamgirls star Jennifer Holliday.
Wearing a blue sparkly dress and a pink leather jacket, Malea Emma was introduced on the loud speaker by the announcer to the Fontana crowd and was welcomed by the thousands of fans in the the stands.
She began her performance with confidence and continued the song hitting every note with ease. She masterfully hit high notes, and the crowd cheered after every one. Malea even added some sassy growls into the song.
Following her performance, Alex Bowman crossed the finish line in first place, marking his second career NASCAR Cup Series win.
Knew it was going to be a good day! How about that, California? 🤘🏼 pic.twitter.com/RCP4TSQHVt
— Alex Bowman (@Alex_Bowman) March 1, 2020
Watch Malea Emma’s national anthem performance below.