The Best and the Worst of Our National Anthem
Our favorite (and not so favorite) renditions of the Star Spangled Banner
Today, we’re going to keep things pretty simple as we’ve all got fireworks and barbecuing to get to. So we’re very briefly going to share our favorite and least favorite versions of the Star Spangled Banner. Happy Fourth, everyone!
THE WORST
After Steven Tyler gets his awkward harmonica solo out of the way, it actually starts out not too awful. Having Steven Tyler doing the national anthem is a terrible idea in the first place. If you don’t agree with that, just wait until he sings “land of the free” and starts screeching like a cat that just got stomped on.
THE BEST
Steven Tyler’s contemporary spin may have failed, but check out Destiny’s Child’s version from a couple years later which was incredibly successful.
THE WORST
The sting from this version is still fresh. You all know I’m bringing up Fergie’s version from last year. The most impressive thing about the video is all the players who managed to keep a straight face.
THE BEST
From the 2009 Super Bowl is Jennifer Hudson’s flawless version. Her version beautifully transitions from a classic to a more contemporary style. I always get goosebumps listening to it, including now as I type this sentence.
THE WORST
There’s not really anything to say about Rosanne Bar’s performance from 1990.
THE BEST
No list of best rendition of the Star Spangled Banner would be complete without Whitney Houston. I find it interesting to point out that one year after the tragedy that was Rosanne Barr’s performance, Whitney delivers her legendary performance.
Starts at 1:10
Written by Mike Hilbun
