Rufus Wainwright made headlines for altering the lyrics of “O Canada” during Game 5 of the World Series on Wednesday night at Dodger Stadium. Prior to the game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Wainwright performed the Canadian national anthem, singing “that only us command” in place of the original “in all of us command.” He delivered the anthem in both English and French.
Significance of the Lyric Change
This modification resonated with a similar gesture made by fellow Canadian artist Chantal Kreviazuk. During the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey final in Boston on February 20, she also adjusted the lyrics to express disapproval of former President Donald Trump’s “51st state” comments regarding Canada.
Other Anthem Changes in the Series
Wainwright’s rendition was not the first anthem alteration during the World Series. Grammy-nominated singer JP Saxe performed “O Canada” at Game 3 on October 27, changing “our home and native land” to “our home on native land.” This change mirrored a previous performance by R&B singer Jully Black during the NBA All-Star game in Salt Lake City in 2023.
Before Wainwright, Toronto-born singer-songwriter Deborah Cox sang “O Canada” ahead of Game 4, just one night earlier.
Game 5 Outcome
The best-of-seven series was tied at 2-2 going into Game 5. The Blue Jays secured a decisive victory, defeating the Dodgers 6-1. Looking ahead, Game 6 is set for Friday night at Rogers Centre. If necessary, Game 7 will take place in Toronto on Saturday.
- Event: Rufus Wainwright alters “O Canada” lyrics
- Date: Wednesday, World Series Game 5
- Location: Dodger Stadium
- Teams: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
- Outcome: Blue Jays won 6-1
- Game 6: Scheduled for Friday at Rogers Centre
- Game 7: Scheduled for Saturday (if necessary)
