As with many here, have heard the National Anthem done almost every which way imaginable. Many of those renditions have been wonderful, and stirring of emotion and pride.
The summative view is that it is best done using the original melodic line, lyrics properly pronounced, and something close to the normal harmonic underpinning with maybe a few tasteful insertions/substitutions at certain points of tension/release.
At this point, I dread hearing the performers who try to use it as a personal vocal show-off piece or who go into excessive elaboration, apparently trying to top the way some other performer(s) took liberties.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
The worst I've heard was Rosanne Barr and an NFL game some years ago. She screeched it and when the crowd booed, she grabbed her crotch. It was disgraceful.
“In a time of deceit telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” ― George Orwell
It's not over when you lose. It's over when you quit.
Years ago at the track in Jackson they would shoot off aerial bombs during the anthem. I can't remember if the song was live or recorded, but I loved the aerial bombs. At Knoxville someone played it on a bugle - clear and beautiful.
Not a real member - just an ordinary guy who appreciates being able to hang around and say something once in awhile.
Happily Trapped In the Past (Thanks, Joe)
Not only a less than minimally educated person, but stupid and out of touch as well.
This is his earliest at Madison Square Garden, the last couple of times I've heard him there he seems to have perfected it some.
The desert is a true treasure for him who seeks refuge from men and the evil of men. In it is contentment In it is death and all you seek (Quoted from "The Bleeding of the Stone" Ibrahim Al-Koni)
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