Alanis Morissette sings Canadian anthem at World Cup 2026

Canadian music legend Alanis Morissette had the honor of performing the national anthem ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto. Standing before tens of thousands of fans at BMO Field, she delivered a rendition of "O Canada" as part of the ceremonial program marking Canada's historic debut in the tournament on home turf.

FIFA selected Morissette for this performance, affirming her status as one of Canada's most significant artists. Born in Ottawa in 1974, Morissette showed an early aptitude for music, beginning to write songs at age ten. Her initial success came on the Canadian pop scene as a teenager.

Morissette's career took a global turn in the mid-1990s after she moved to Los Angeles. Her 1995 album, "Jagged Little Pill," became a landmark release, selling millions and earning multiple Grammy Awards. Hits like "You Oughta Know" and "Ironic" established her as a voice for a generation and redefined female artists' roles in rock music.

Throughout her career, Morissette has navigated both critical acclaim and controversy. Her deeply personal lyrics, often inspired by past relationships, and her open discussions on mental health, spirituality, and feminism have sparked varied reactions. Despite these challenges, she remains a highly respected singer-songwriter. In 2010, she married rapper Mario "Souleye" Treadway, with whom she has three children. Her musical "Jagged Little Pill" also achieved success on Broadway, and her induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2026 further cemented her lasting impact on contemporary music.