Beyoncé on lip-synching controversy: 'I sang over pre-recorded track'

Beyoncé launched into an impromptu performance of the national anthem at her Super Bowl press conference today (January 31). As the 31-year-old walked on stage for the media event, she asked the assembled journalists to stand, before performing a live rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'. Upon finishing the song, she simply asked: "Any questions?" The move was a clear attempt to silence her doubters, after it was reported that she lip-synched her performance at President Obama's inauguration. When asked about the controversy, the 'Countdown' singer admitted that she sung over a backing track at the presidential ceremony but defended her decision. "I am a perfectionist," she explained. "I did not have time to rehearse with the orchestra [at the inauguration]. It was a live television show and a very important moment for me. "Due to the weather, due to the delay, due to no proper sound check, I did not feel comfortable taking the risk... so I decided to sing along with my pre-recorded track, which is very common in the music industry. And I'm very proud of my performance." When asked if she planned to sing live at her Super Bowl half-time show, she replied: "I always sing live."