Steven Tyler: 'I don't understand criticism of my National Anthem'

Steven Tyler has defended his performance of the US National Anthem at a recent NFL game.

The American Idol judge sang the patriotic song prior to the January 22 AFC Championship Game between the Baltimore Ravens and the New England Patriots.

His version of the National Anthem drew a significant amount of a criticism online, including a tweet from Fox Sports writer Jason Whitlock which read: "Steven Tyler far more obscene than Janet Jackson's t*tty."



The Aerosmith frontman discussed the performance in an interview with The AP, where he admitted to being confused as to why his performance was at all controversial.

"I don't know [why people complained]. As I said before, I put emphasis on, 'In the land of the free' and I went up. Oddly enough I hit the note so I don't know what they are talking about," Tyler insisted.

"I emphasised 'free' which was for freedom. It was well thought out prior to. I wasn't messing with American tradition."

Tyler is currently in Indianapolis for the Super Bowl, where he will team with Carrie Underwood for a live Crossroads concert.

CMT Crossroads: Steven Tyler & Carrie Underwood Live From the Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam is broadcast on Saturday, February 4 on CMT.

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Watch a preview of CMT Crossroads: Steven Tyler & Carrie Underwood Live From the Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam below: