A few nights ago I was scrolling TikTok and came across a video with a compilation of the best performances of the American national anthem. I remembered at that moment how much I love listening to these performances.
I don’t consider myself to be especially patriotic but there is something special about listening to national anthem performances before sporting events, and coming from a musical background I am always looking for moments that satisfy my inner musician.
My original obsession came from binge watching as many great performances as possible to cleanse myself from Fergie’s 2018 version, which may be the worst musical performance ever done.
I’ve yet again gone on a binge to remember my top picks. So, here are my top five (plus one honorable mention).
Honorable Mention: Boyz II Men - 2020 NFC Championship Game
While this one doesn’t quite crack my top five, it does deserve an honorable mention as it was a big part of what started my obsession. One of the reasons I love this performance is because of the incredible harmonies.
From start to finish, the anthem is perfectly arranged to fit the vocal abilities of all three performers. All of their voices mix so well and mash perfectly into chords. It is a wonderful take on the anthem, which by itself is rather basic.
#5: Jordin Sparks - Super Bowl XLII - 2008
Until I watched the previously mentioned TikTok, I had not seen this performance, but I am glad I have now discovered Sparks’ rendition. Hers is the first of three Super Bowl performances on this list, and something that the three all have in common is rearranging the melody in a way to fit the singer without overdoing it.
Although the beginning is underwhelming, the middle verses pick up and deliver a musical punch to the listener. Beginning at “and the rocket's red glare,” Sparks slows down the tempo. Even though she stretches out the section longer than normal, everything she does with the music is so intriguing it’s hard to notice how long the performance truly is.
What makes this a top five for me are the runs that she makes. Multiple times in the middle section, her ability to bend notes is beautifully showcased and adds plenty of flavor to a fantastic performance.
#4: Jim Cornelison - 2014 NHL Stadium Series
Cornelison’s version of the national anthem is one of the most iconic and a staple in Chicago. He has performed it hundreds of times at Chicago sporting events. The one I have linked is my personal favorite and the one that I feel best represents the way it makes me feel.
I was first introduced to Cornelison during a Chicago Blackhawks game this past January and instantly fell in love with his voice even though his vocals (technically) aren’t the best. However, everything about his version is the perfect way to begin any game.
The snow, crowd and voice all combined to create a perfect ambiance delivering one of my favorite performances of all time.
#3: Pentatonix - 2023 CFP National Championship Game - 2023
I have always been a huge fan of Pentatonix, so when I heard they were performing at the 2023 National Championship Game I was instantly excited. I believe that, based on musical complexity, this is the best version on my list.
The anthem is magnificently put together to make it their own but not stray too far from what the original music is. There is not a single dull moment in this performance. My favorite individual moment is at the end during the lyrics “of the brave,” as so much happens among the five that it’s musically overwhelming. That is why I love this version so much.
#2: Jennifer Hudson - Super Bowl XLIII - 2009
If not for the iconic performance I ranked at first, this onewould be the best by far. Aside from her national anthem performance, I believe Hudson is one of the most underrated musicians ever. She does not get enough praise for what she can do.
This specific performance begins with a light and airy opening, which I heard and did not enjoy the first time listening. I have come to like it more now, but it’s not the best out there. However, what Hudson follows it up with is nothing short of mesmerizing. I don’t think I can elaborate with words how good Hudson was during this performance.
She also didn’t do all that much to the music. Everything was kept simple but done elegantly, which is what makes this one of the best ever. If you asked me to pick a favorite moment, I would respond with “simply all of it”.
#1: Whitney Houston - Super Bowl XXV - 1991
Then there’s Whitney Houston. This is the most iconic and perfect national anthem performance ever. One of the world’s best singers walked out in a tracksuit and belted the Star Spangled Banner at the biggest sporting event in the world.
Set aside all of the external factors, her actual performance was flawless. I don’t think it’s necessary to analyze her voice as just about everyone in the world has heard her perform before. I just feel this performance is so breathtaking, nothing feels forced and everything just makes sense. Houston pulled all of the right strings to create a performance that will be remembered and celebrated forever.
Andrew Bowlby is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts about the column? Let Andrew know by tweeting him @andrew_bowlby.
