“… and the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air…”
This is a line from the Star-Spangled Banner.
But it can also be paraphrased and applied to a handful of times in which a famous singer attempted to honor his or her country prior to some kind of major event.
What we’re saying here is that some artists have bombed with their rendition of America’s theme song.
Some artists have bombed… HARD.
Whose version remains the most memorable, for all of the wrong reasons? Whose do you consider to be the best of the best?
Listen/watch the following videos and decide for yourself! (NOTE: We saved the undisputed best for last.)
Fergie
Fergie attempted a sultry edition of the Star-Spangled Banner at the NBA All-Star Game. As you can see here, it did NOT go over well.
Roseanne Barr
If Fergie’s performance wasn’t the worst ever, Roseanne’s from 1990 may have. For a very different reason, as you can see above.
Pink
Pink overcame illness and belted out a rendition of the national anthem at the Super Bowl. Watch the performance and hand out a grade now!
Ciara
Ciara pretty much showed off her boobs while singing the National Anthem. Should the artist have covered up more? Or should she have worn even less?!?
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga blew her national anthem out of the park at Super Bowl 50. Watch the performance now.
Marlana VanHoose
Who is Marlana VanHoose? Only a blind singer who left us in awe with this rendition. It’s an absolute must-watch.
Jackie Evancho
Jackie Evancho belted out the national anthem this afternoon at the inauguration of Donald Trump. He may suck, but go ahead and click PLAY. She was solid.
Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan sang the national anthem prior to Super Bowl LI. How did he stack up against past greats who have done the same?
Brett Young
Brett Young tried to sing the national anthem prior to the NHL All-Star Game in 2018. As you’re about to see, however, he failed. Miserably.
Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato sang the National Anthem prior a World Series game. Watch her positively slay the patriotic song.
Usher
Usher took to the court prior to Game 4 of the NBA Finals in Cleveland. Watch him put a personal spin on the national anthem.
This Two-Year Old!
Yes, the young man above really is just two years old. But watch him totally nail the anthem!
James Taylor
Oops! He’s a legend. But click PLAY to find out how he messed up this one time.
Whitney Houston
Let there be no doubt: this is the best rendition of The Star Spangled Banner in the history of professional sports. Take in Whitney Houston’s masterpiece now.