Remigio Pereira, a member of the Canadian singing quartet The Tenors, was in the news today after altering the lyrics to the Canadian national anthem “O Canada” before the MLB All-Star Game. According to the group, Remigio replaced some lyrics of “O Canada” to “all lives matter,” a move that wasn’t agreed upon before their performance.
Most people watching the national anthem were pretty confused as to what as going on, because it was pretty clear that something wasn’t right. Gawker might have put it best when they titled their article “Savor The Moment The Canadian Anthem Singers Realized Their Buddy Had Gone Rogue.” It’s honestly a moment that will have you laughing hysterically.
Video Of Their Performance
Correction: The Tenors altered O Canada lyrics in support of All Lives Matter. pic.twitter.com/Q0i6qqLB4Y
— Bill Cooney (@BillCooney) July 13, 2016
https://twitter.com/AndyCole84/status/753061945910005760
Reaction To Remigio’s Change
Here’s the official statement regarding The Tenor’s national anthem. Clearly they’re upset:
“The Tenors are deeply sorry for the disrespectful and misguided lack of judgment by one member of the group acting as a ‘lone wolf’ today during the singing of the Canadian national anthem at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in San Diego.
The other members of the group are shocked and embarrassed by the actions of Remigio Pereira, who changed the lyrics of our treasured anthem and used this coveted platform to serve his own political views.
Our sincere apologies and regrets go out to everybody who witnessed this shameful act, to our fellow Canadians, to Major League Baseball, to our friends, families, fans and to all those affected.
The actions of one member of this group were extremely selfish and he will not be performing with The Tenors until further notice.”
Meanwhile Remigio had this to say about his actions:
That was my singular motivation when I said all lives matter.
— REMIGIO (@RemigioPereira) July 13, 2016
I've been so moved lately by the tragic loss of life and I hoped for a positive statement that would bring us ALL together. ONE LOVE.
— REMIGIO (@RemigioPereira) July 13, 2016
I speak for the human race and the lives of all sentient beings. Love, peace and harmony for ALL has always been my life's purpose.
— REMIGIO (@RemigioPereira) July 13, 2016
from the bottom and all corners of my heart, be good to one another, love one another. Let us all live in peace, it is everyone's birthright
— REMIGIO (@RemigioPereira) July 13, 2016
Once we awaken the love within, we will never be without.
Peace be with us all.
Remi— REMIGIO (@RemigioPereira) July 13, 2016