Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) announced that GRAMMY® and Blues Music Award-winning Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi will perform the national anthem at the 152nd Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve this Saturday, May 2nd, 2026. The pair will perform a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” just after 5:00 p.m. EDT, with the performance broadcast live as part of NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage.
“Tedeschi Trucks Band’s soulful sound and remarkable vocal presence make them an exciting addition to this year’s Kentucky Derby,” said Mike Anderson, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to Churchill Downs and know their performance will capture the energy, emotion, and spirit that define Derby Day.”
The 12-piece powerhouse ensemble recently released their sixth studio album, Future Soul, and began a six-month tour across North America. Besides winning a GRAMMY® in 2012 for Best Blues Album, the band also garnered two nominations, as well as numerous Blues Music Awards and Americana Music Association nominations. They continue to solidify their place as one of the most dynamic acts in music today.
“Performing at the Kentucky Derby is a true honor for us,” said Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. “We’re thrilled to be invited and grateful for the opportunity to perform at such an iconic event.”
