After his breathtaking performance during the national anthem at a men’s basketball game, West Virginia University police officer Carlton Smith became an internet sensation.
On January 12, while on duty at the WVU Coliseum, Smith was approached by university administrators with an urgent request. They needed someone to perform the national anthem in just five minutes, as the scheduled singer was delayed due to snow.
Smith, a 28-year-old officer who has been with the West Virginia University Police Department for four years, is known for his singing talent among his colleagues. In fact, he had reached the Hollywood round of “American Idol” 13 years ago. Despite his experience, the request to sing before 14,000 spectators at the Coliseum caught him off guard.
Describing the incident, Smith said, “They asked if I was Carlton and said they needed a big favor.” He asked for a glass of water, which a cheerleader quickly provided. He was then led to the court and instructed to start singing as soon as his name was called.
Smith’s impromptu performance has been viewed by more than 2 million people on YouTube. Off duty, Smith continues to pursue his passion for singing by performing with a band during open mic nights and singing in church, a hobby he’s maintained since childhood. “It’s my passion,” he shared.