Classic Renditions Of The Star Spangled Banner

Performances of the American national anthem are often surrounded by all sorts of controversy.  The traditionalists believe that a patriotic anthem should not be disrespected with personal stylistic alterations interpreted by the performing artist. Others argue that the freedom and individuality conveyed by the interpreter may symbolize the core values the country was founded on. Either way, the music can be challenging to sing because of its melodic shape and not-so-easy-to-remember lyrics. It is often performed in widely broadcasted events, and thus we have some interesting performances captured for the ages. 

 

1. Jose Feliciano, 1968 World Series

In the midst of the protests over the Vietnam War, the author of “Feliz Navidad” arranged the piece as a latin folk tune. People responded in different ways but according to Jose, the criticism he received affected his career in a very negative way.

 

2. Jimi Hendrix,  1969 Woosdtock  

At the height of counterculture and civil rights movements, the legendary guitarist stirred all sorts of reactions with his thrilling performance.

 

3. Marvin Gaye, 1983 NBA All-Star Game

Marvin Gaye sang with such patience and style.  He simply took over the whole event and made it his own concert.

 

4. Whitney Houston , 1991 Super Bowl 

This Super Bowl was at the wake of the United States’ intervention in the first Gulf War. It was a huge moment in a very big stage and only someone as good as Whitney Houston would have been able to carry it.

 

5. Michael Bolton, 2003 Red Sox vs Yankees

This guy was nearly booed off stage when he completely went blank on the lyrics.

 

6. Steven Tyler, 2004 World Series 

Some of you may think this is pretty horrible, specially if you just listened to Whitney Houston. I personally love this one. He simply goes full on without remorse like the rockstar he is.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlK6VfnWH34

 

7. Christina Aguilera, 2011 Super Bowl 

First she gets the first verse confused with the second verse. It even seems that the guy from Green Bay catches it with a smirk. At the end of the piece, Christina forces it a little too much and totally loses control.

 

8. Julia Dale, 2013 NBA Finals 

This outstanding 12 year old singer seems to have become the Heat’s official interpreter for big games.

 

9. Rene Fleming, 2014 Super Bowl

And this is perhaps how you are actually supposed to sing the national anthem.

http://youtu.be/7etXoNrwP8c