Nick Jonas Heavily Criticized for His Version of 'God Bless America' at the US Open [VIDEO]

Nick Jonas

The youngest member of the popular boy band The Jonas Brothers, Nick Jonas, opened the 2014 women's singles finals at the US Open over the weekend with a rendition of "God Bless America," and although an admirable choice from the once known Christian artist turned pop star, he received a load of criticism.

Jonas dropped his new solo single "Jealous" at midnight just hours before he performed at Sunday's US Open final between Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki, but instead of people talking about his new song they were talking about his performance at the popular tennis event.

"In a bold choice, Jonas opted to perform the song in an off-key whisper falsetto, like he was Barry Gibbs crooning in a library while wearing noise-canceling headphones," USA Today criticized, "Sounding like an Enya cover band while performing an American classic? That doesn't work."

Jonas has reportedly been trying to shed his "squeaky-clean" image with his solo venture. The New York Post reported that Jonas "has emancipated himself from the squeaky-clean shackles of former purity ring-wearing boy band The Jonas Brothers."

Adding that his last single song, "'Chains' is a metaphor for what he has been feeling all these years."

The news came as a shock to some of Jonas' loyal Christian fans because the brothers were very vocal about their faith. The youngest Jonas himself got his start as a solo Christian artist signed to INO Records, but later lost that deal.

Jonas' first single, at 12-years-old, "Dear God" was performed at churches and venues everywhere as he sung the heartfelt lyrics, "Dear God, people take your words and try to twist 'em round/I know you can't be happy with what's goin' down."

Although Jonas' latest material is being pegged risqué perhaps the brother is sticking to his Christian values after all. The Jonas Brothers were raised in a Christian home as their father served as a worship leader and pastor.

View of clip of Jonas' performance of "God Bless America," below and tell us what you think about his performance.


View older an clip below of the brothers openly speak on their Christian faith: