Luke Bryan apologized Wednesday for having written down some words to the National Anthem on his hand before performing it at the Major League Baseball all-star game the night before in Kansas City.

Bryan received criticism for doing so but he defended himself via Twitter.

“I had a few keys words written down to insure myself that I wouldn’t mess up. I just wanted to do my best. I promise it was from the heart,” he Tweeted.

Bryan later said, “If I offended anyone with my approach I sincerely apologize. Anytime I sing the anthem it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest.”

Bryan also received flak for checking his watch during the Anthem. He Tweeted, “I did check my watch because I knew the stealth bomber would fly over 2 minutes in and I knew I started a little late,” he wrote.

Of course, taking heat for singing the anthem is not new. Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler received negative comments for his screaming the song before an NFL game in January. Cristina Aguilera sang the wrong words during the 2011 Super Bowl.

Luke took to his Twitter this morning with an explanation…
Morning everyone. I really wanna explain the national anthem performance from last night. I had a few keys words written down to insure myself that I wouldn’t mess up. I just wanted to do my best. I promise it was from the heart. If I offended anyone with my approach I sincerely apologize. Anytime I sing the anthem it is an honor and my heart beats out of my chest. I did check my watch because I knew the stealth bomber would fly over 2 minutes in and I knew a started a little late. Being a part of the all star game was amazing and I look forward to the next time I can perform the anthem. Thanks y’all. Love ya