My Star-Spangled Banner—A “Key” Tradition in Sports Today
CONTROVERSY Christina Aguilera’s bluesy ornamented version of Francis Scott Key’s “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Super Bowl XLV has reignited controversy over appropriate performances of the national...
View ArticleAdding a Beat to the Banner: Beyoncé, Whitney & the Magic of 4/4 Time
The hubbub about Beyoncé’s “to lip synch or not” performance of the national anthem at Obama’s second inauguration aside, everyone I’ve spoken with and read LOVED her performance. Soul superstar Aretha...
View ArticleGreat Anthem Performances in Sports—Nominate Your Favorites
Television made sports championships, such as the Super Bowl and World Series, into international entertainment extravaganzas and the role of music in sports has grown alongside. Musicians had long...
View ArticleHow “The Star-Spangled Banner” Became Part of Football Pageantry
The Banner plays roles symbolic, commercial, and practical in professional football. When the Banner begins, all eyes in the stadium turn towards the flag, men remove their hats, and all place their...
View ArticleRenée Fleming Brings Opera to 100 Million at Super Bowl XLVIII
“Grammy Award-Winner and Soprano Superstar” Renée Fleming brought her silky but power packed voice to Super Bowl XLVII in an artistic performance featuring both vocal command and expressive taste. It...
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