Teen Anthem Singer to Honor Bruce Lee with USPS Stamp Release
A 13-year-old from Oak Harbor, Washington, will perform the national anthem at a celebration honoring the late martial arts legend Bruce Lee.
A 13-year-old from Oak Harbor is set to deliver a stirring performance in honor of Bruce Lee as the United States Postal Service releases a new “forever” stamp commemorating the late actor, martial artist, and Seattle resident on Feb. 18.
Genelia Lai has been selected to sing the national anthem at the Nippon Kan Theatre in Seattle during the stamp’s release celebration. According to Artis Montgomery, manager of USPS national events, Shannon Lee, Bruce Lee’s daughter, was moved to tears while watching Genelia’s audition tape.
“Our overall focus is to celebrate a Chinese-American martial artist, actor and filmmaker who reshaped the direction of martial arts,” Montgomery wrote in an email to Andrew Lai, Genelia’s father. “He captivated audiences with his skill, charisma and screen presence, inspiring a generation of fans.”
For the Lai family, the invitation carries deep personal resonance. Genelia, who identifies as Chinese-Indian and American, grew up immersed in Bruce Lee’s films and the practice of martial arts, her father, Andrew, said. The opportunity to honor Lee is particularly meaningful, as Genelia previously faced racist comments after posting a cover of a Beach Boys song on YouTube—a form of discrimination Lee himself encountered during his career.
Genelia’s involvement came about almost by chance. Her audition tape was initially sent to the wrong department within USPS, and she was told they weren’t seeking an anthem singer. However, the clip eventually reached the Lee family, who were deeply touched and extended an invitation to perform. Despite her passion for singing, Genelia admitted she hadn’t anticipated being chosen for such an event.
Though currently in seventh grade, Genelia dreams of a professional singing career. Her YouTube channel showcases covers of artists like Ariana Grande and Ed Sheeran, alongside original songs she writes, sings, produces, and choreographs with her family’s support. Her music blends soulful lyrics with catchy melodies, drawing comparisons to Sabrina Carpenter and Conan Gray. Genelia playfully acknowledged that her musical talent comes from her father, not her mother.
Genelia hones her skills through private singing lessons and participation in the choir at North Whidbey Middle School, allowing her to sing with a level of talent and heart beyond her years. While she’s performed in musicals and at Oak Harbor High School varsity games, the Nippon Kan Theater represents her largest audience yet.
“I feel really excited but I’m also pretty nervous,” she said.
The forever stamp event is at full capacity. Those who missed the Bruce Lee celebration can still catch Genelia performing the national anthem at the Miss Oak Harbor Scholarship Pageant on March 7. Tickets are available at whidbeyroyalty.org/pageants. Follow Genelia Lai on YouTube @Genelia_Music or on Spotify at Genelia.
