The centerpiece of the museum’s renovation is the brand-new state-of-the-art home for the Star-Spangled Banner. Yes, the Star-Spangled Banner mentioned in the national anthem. In its accompanying exhibit, you’ll be able to hear different versions of the national anthem—both historical and contemporary. As we’ve been selecting what to include in the exhibit, we’ve been listening to everything from the earliest recordings for the phonograph made by Thomas Edison in 1878 to Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock in 1969 to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. We want to show how people have interpreted and used the anthem in many ways over the years. Do you have a favorite version of the Star-Spangled Banner? Share it with us!
Megan Smith is an Education Specialist working on The Star-Spangled Banner project, the First Ladies and American Presidency exhibitions, and the museum’s new public programs. She now knows way more about the national anthem than she ever thought possible.
For celebrity versions nothing tops the Whitney Houston version at the Super Bowl in 1991. Being in the middle of the Gulf War definitely helps its spine-tingling impact. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AOe0ywnWes) For pure patriotic impact, any version by any of the armed forces bands can't be beat, such as this one by the marine corps band. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS9vpYL4eIk)
Posted by: Dan B | August 13, 2010 at 02:33 PM
Anytime it is sung by Chicago's Wayne Messmer
Posted by: Michael Bradford | August 13, 2010 at 02:23 PM
This little girl's ability to memorize lyrics is impressive, but her response to an off-camera distraction near the beginning is especially funny.
editors note: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FUNTPPItAs
Posted by: Leigh | August 15, 2008 at 01:01 PM
The single GREATEST rendition is Marvin Gaye's super smooth version at the 1983 NBA All-Star Game in LA. Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRvVzaQ6i8A
Posted by: Mike | August 14, 2008 at 09:08 AM
One of my favorite renditions was at Ft. McHenry. In the theater there they end with a stirring version of the anthem - if memory serves it was by a Naval Academy men's choir - and then uncover a large window looking out on a reproduction flag flying over the fort. It's one of those moments you can't help getting goosebumps.
Posted by: Matt | August 13, 2008 at 04:32 PM
This is my current favorite: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5d80mqGQLE
Posted by: Dan H. | August 13, 2008 at 04:16 PM