Mariah Carey performed the national anthem at the Super Bowl in 2002. Her appearance took place at Super Bowl XXXVI, held on February 3, 2002, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans.
Carey sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” accompanied by the Boston Pops, conducted by Keith Lockhart. Her performance was part of a prominent pregame ceremony that also included Mary J. Blige, Marc Anthony, and the Boston Pops performing “America the Beautiful,” followed by Paul McCartney singing “Freedom.”
The 2002 game carried special significance because it was the first Super Bowl played after the September 11, 2001, attacks. The ceremony emphasized national unity, first responders, and military service. A formation of U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagles and F-16 Fighting Falcons flew over the stadium after the anthem.
The year can be confused with Carey's other high-profile anthem appearances. She also sang the national anthem at the 2003 Daytona 500, but that was a NASCAR event rather than the Super Bowl.