White Sox National Anthem Singer Gerald Chaney Rushed to Hospital After Field Collapse
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Gerald Chaney, the cherished anthem singer for the Chicago White Sox, collapsed Wednesday night while performing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the “Black national anthem.” He was promptly taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
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According to a statement from the team on X, Chaney experienced a medical emergency during the pregame ceremony. “He received treatment by EMTs at the ballpark and was alert prior to being transported to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.” The statement expressed the team’s support, saying, “The entire White Sox family is sending love to Gerald and his family for a full and speedy recovery.”
The incident occurred during a “Jackie Robinson Day” celebration at Rate Field Park on Chicago’s South Side. Chaney was set to perform both “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and the “Star-Spangled Banner,” but fell to the ground after pausing twice during the initial song. Medical personnel quickly responded and transported him off the field on a stretcher.
The team confirmed Chaney was alert while being taken to a local hospital for tests. During a subsequent in-game update, they reassured fans that he was recovering well. “Scary stuff, and really just hopeful that he was all right,” White Sox manager Will Venable remarked about Chaney, who has also performed for the Chicago Bears, Bulls, and Cubs, as well as teams like the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, and Mets.
“I was really glad to hear that he is doing well, but obviously a scary moment. Everyone did a great job in responding,” Venable added. “So, really good news to hear that he is all right.”
As a result of the incident, the game’s start was delayed by 12 minutes. The White Sox ultimately lost to the Tampa Bay Rays, 8-3. At this time, no further updates on Chaney’s condition have been released.
