Rufus Wainwright Gives “O Canada” a Thoughtful Twist at the World Series
Canadian singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright brought a poetic and thought-provoking touch to the national anthem during Game 5 of the World Series on Wednesday night. The Montreal-raised artist, known for his rich vocals and fearless artistic expression, performed O Canada at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles — but with one subtle, yet powerful, lyrical change that caught everyone’s attention.
Instead of singing the usual line “in all of us command,” Wainwright sang “that only us command.” It was a gentle but deliberate deviation that sparked curiosity and conversation across the stands and online. Delivered in both English and French, his version of the anthem felt deeply emotional — a personal interpretation that reflected both pride and contemplation.
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This performance wasn’t entirely without precedent. Earlier this year, Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk had made the same lyric change while performing at the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey final in Boston. At that time, her tweak was seen as a response to former U.S. president Donald Trump’s remark about Canada being like America’s “51st state.” Wainwright’s choice seemed to echo that spirit of artistic resistance and subtle national assertion.
As his voice echoed through the stadium, the moment felt both intimate and symbolic. In the midst of the roaring crowd and the high stakes of a World Series showdown between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, this artistic gesture reminded everyone of how even a national anthem can carry new shades of meaning depending on who sings it — and how.
Following Wainwright’s soulful rendition, the Blue Jays went on to dominate the game, defeating the Dodgers 6–1. With that win, Toronto took a 3–2 lead in the World Series, setting themselves up for a potential championship clinch back home. Game 6 is scheduled for Friday in Toronto, with Game 7 — if needed — also to be played on home turf.
The anthem moment was short, but it left a mark. It showed once again how music, even in the most traditional and ceremonial settings, can be used to express subtle protest, pride, and individuality. Wainwright didn’t just sing O Canada — he reimagined it for a new moment in Canadian identity, blending artistry and meaning in a way that felt both bold and beautiful.
For fans and viewers alike, it was more than just a pre-game performance. It was a reminder that the power of a few changed words can still move a nation — especially when sung by a voice as timeless as Rufus Wainwright’s.
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