Indianapolis, Indiana – On Saturday, May 10, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will once again come alive with the sights, sounds, and spirit of racing — but before the engines roar, a powerful voice will set the tone. Indianapolis native Leah Crane has been selected to perform the national anthem at the start of the 2025 Sonsio Grand Prix, a moment many fans consider one of the most emotional and meaningful parts of race day.
“The national anthem, especially when performed by someone who also calls Indiana home, is an emotional and moving moment before the start of a race,” said INDYCAR and IMS President J. Douglas Boles. “Leah has performed at events throughout the state, including here at IMS, and her rendition will be a great way to lead into the Sonsio Grand Prix on the 14-turn, 2.439-mile road course.”
Crane’s name is not unfamiliar to those who follow music in Indiana. Her reputation spans well beyond the state’s borders, reaching audiences across the Midwest and even further. A graduate of the esteemed Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Crane’s voice has graced concert halls, athletic arenas, church sanctuaries, and recording studios.
One of her most notable musical roles is as the lead vocalist for Pavel & Direct Contact, a vibrant Latin Jazz and Salsa group. Her style is described as both powerful and versatile, seamlessly moving between genres while maintaining her signature tone. Whether she’s delivering a high-energy performance with her band or offering a soulful rendition of the national anthem, Crane captivates audiences with sincerity and skill.
Her musical versatility extends to the studio as well. Crane regularly records promotional and demo material for top music publishers such as Walt Disney, Hal Leonard, Lorenz, Alfred, Carl Fischer, Beckenhorst, and Shawnee Press. Her voice, in fact, may already be familiar to many — whether from a Disney theme song demo or a choral sample heard in school music programs across the country.
Crane’s past performances of the national anthem have included a long list of major events. She has sung for the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, NCAA Final Four Championship, AMA Supercross, and NASCAR — all high-profile venues that have helped establish her as a go-to voice for patriotic moments. The Sonsio Grand Prix at IMS is simply the latest chapter in what has been a meaningful and dynamic performance career.
Yet music isn’t Crane’s only passion. In addition to her extensive performance schedule, she serves the community in another equally vital way — as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at IU Health’s Riley Hospital for Children. She earned her graduate degree in social work from Indiana University and is currently helping families navigate some of life’s toughest challenges.
This dual role — of artist and healer — is part of what makes Leah Crane’s upcoming performance so special. She represents the heart and resilience of Indiana. Not just a performer, she’s also someone who works every day to improve lives.
Saturday’s event is part of the broader “Month of May” celebration at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a buildup to the world-famous Indianapolis 500. The Sonsio Grand Prix will take place on the IMS road course, a challenging 14-turn, 2.439-mile circuit that brings a different kind of thrill compared to the traditional oval.
Race fans can catch the action live on FOX beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. And before the green flag drops, they’ll have the opportunity to hear Leah Crane’s stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” setting a patriotic tone for a day of fierce competition and high-speed drama.
Those looking to attend in person can still purchase tickets through the IMS website. More details about the complete Month of May schedule — which includes concerts, fan events, qualifying races, and, of course, the Indy 500 — are also available at ims.com.
As the countdown to race day continues, all eyes will soon turn to the track. But before that first engine fires, one voice — clear, confident, and full of spirit — will remind everyone why these moments matter. Leah Crane’s performance promises to be one of the highlights of the day.
And in a world of fast cars and loud cheers, it’s often a simple song — sung with heart — that unites everyone in silence, reflection, and pride.
