Hercules Smith Defends Anthem Performance

Hercules Smith has faced significant backlash following his performance of the South African national anthem at the Springboks’ season-opening Test against Wales in Twickenham, England.

The match – which saw the Springboks secure a 41-13 victory on Saturday, 22 June – was overshadowed by Smith’s rendition of “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika,” which many claimed he “butchered”.

The Pretoria-born classical singer, who was invited to perform at the game, defended himself on Instagram the following day, suggesting that technical issues with the track affected his performance.

Despite the criticism, Smith boasts an impressive musical background, including winning the 2012 Voice of Europe and performing at various prestigious events, such as the 2014 Rugby Championship match between South Africa and Argentina.

Twitter users were quick to draw unfavourable comparisons to Ras Dumisani’s notorious 2009 anthem performance, which was similarly off-key and marred by forgotten lyrics. Dumisani later claimed sabotage, but his performance has become a reference point for poor renditions of the anthem.

The backlash against Smith has been severe, with comments on both social media platforms highlighting the disappointment. Some labelled him the “white Ras Dumisani,” underscoring the negative reception.

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