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  • Fergie has apologized after taking some major heat for her rendition of the National Anthem at the NBA All-Star game. (Photo; ScreenCap)

    Fergie, the Fergalicious Black Eyed Peas singer, has learned the hard way that different isn’t always better, especially when it involves a traditional song like the National Anthem. She issued a formal apology today after drawing heat for her rendition of the song at the NBA All-Star Game.

    Fergie, real name Stacy Ann Ferguson, said she “tried her best” to do something different, but drew derision from fans on social media.

    “I’ve always been honored and proud to perform the National Anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA,” she explained in the statement.

    “I’m a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn’t strike the intended tone. I love this country and honestly tried my best,” she added.

    The performance took place at the Los Angeles Staples Center over the weekend ahead of the annual basketball game.

    Fergie looked like a sultry lounge singer wearing a strapless black lace dress, but came off like a Vegas nightclub act, crooning the song in a slow, off-tempo pace.

    Even, comedian Roseanne Barr, who sang a screechy, crotch-grabbing comedy version of the song in 1990, panned Fergie’s performance on social media.

    Fergie shouldn’t feel too bad. At least she didn’t muff the words.

    The National Anthem is a difficult song to sing in the first place and more than one pop star has flubbed the words.

    James Taylor tripped over the words at the 2013 World series, while Christine Aguilera flubbed the song at the 2011 Super Bowl.

    Mariah Carey, whose had a few on-stage embarrassments of her own, offered her support after the performance.

    Referring to the criticism, she said: “Darling, no one needs to listen to that!”

    Check out the video below, let us know your thoughts and be sure to follow IM on Twitter for the latest music news.