National Anthems

I don't have a problem with musicians or singers adding a little flair to the US anthem. I do agree that changing it into your own song with re-written melody is not appropriate.

As far as off key, I think it sometimes may be attributed to the echos and pitch variations of a large stadium..? And probably some people are extremely nervous, even pros who have sung in front of a billion people.

I do though get annoyed with how some people act like its somehow disrespectful if the song is varied in any way. Like their whole day is now ruined for hearing it that way..

Of course you could have to sit through all 4 verses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kuv1Mt6kMOU I'm pretty good with hearing one with feeling and the correct words.

Better than our boring durge of an anthem. At least yours is more upbeat. The Italians and Spanish have a far better idea for an upbeat tune.

I have a close friend who sings the anthem at sporting events. She tells me it is a daunting and very difficult song to sing correctly. A huge challenge vocally and a capella with the echo delay must be extra tough in a stadium. Hats off to those that do it well. Thumbs down to the hacks that fail. We've had plenty of those lately.
Rick

Yeah, I'm not a fan of the overdone vocal loopty-doos and the general bag o' cats sound either.

Whitney Houston could have done vocal loopty-doos, but I don't think she overdid it here. Just some major vocal talent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wvG5JQA5og

The old opera fan approves! When asked if she was going to pre-record as most do, she said she only sings live and wouldn't know how to lip sync.

I was with Billy Connolly years ago when he proposed changing our National Anthem to Barwick Green (The Archers theme music). Its bouncy, makes you smile and, you can get away with just going 'dum di dum di dum di dum...' if you don't know the words.......