To the public, Amanda Gorman is a rising poet who made her name on Inauguration Day last month. However, she has been touring the country for some time now performing for the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Lin Manuel Miranda. Through her travel, she caught the attention of the National Football League who approached her with an opportunity to perform during Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium. As Don Corleone would say, it wasn't an offer she couldn't refuse.
"We first met with Amanda’s team in early November, and then with her at the end of that month, so we’ve been familiar with her talent and power for awhile now," NFL Vice President of Event Strategy Matt Shapiro told USA Today Sports.
"We at the league have been big fans of her work for some time and knew she’d be the perfect person to bring power and unity to this unique moment in an unprecedented year."
After the NFL made the announcement that Gorman would be performing at Super Bowl LV, many thought that the opportunity came from her inauguration fame. However, she quickly turned to Twitter to clear things up.
"I also wanted to be the first to say that while it might seem like this opportunity must’ve [come] from my inauguration fame, I’ve actually been talking with the Super Bowl for weeks now, far prior to my invite to the inauguration. Had to keep my blessing secret till now," she tweeted.
After clearing up things on Twitter, she took to Raymond James Stadium to further utilize her voice. Following the performances of Jazmine Sullivan and H.E.R., Gorman performed "Church of Captains" before an audience of millions around the country.
"Today we honor our three captains for their actions and impact in a time of uncertainty and need. They've taken the need, exceeding all expectations and limitations, uplifting their communities and neighbors, healers and educators," Gorman said.
Read the full text of Gorman's "Church of Captains" below.