Jewel Singing National Anthem at Rodeo Event

1/4/2008 Stephen L. Betts In anticipation of her upcoming country album, Jewel will sing the National Anthem live from Madison Square Garden at the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) VERSUS Invitational on Sunday (1/6). The three-day event is part of the elite 2008 Built Ford Tough Series presented by Wrangler. Jewel recently signed to the Valory Music Co., sister label to Big Machine Records, home to Taylor Swift, Trisha Yearwood and Jack Ingram. Her single, “Stronger Woman,” will hit country radio in February, with her highly-anticipated album slated for a summer 2008 release. The PBR is owned and operated by seven-time All-Around Rodeo Champion Ty Murray, who is Jewel’s longtime boyfriend. Jewel’s father was an All-Around Rodeo Champion in Alaska. The VERSUS Invitational will be held January 4-6 at New York’s Madison Square Garden. Jewel will perform the National Anthem on the final day of competition, which will be broadcast live on NBC beginning at 4:30 p.m. (ET).