Who sang the best National Anthems and who sang the worst ones? So many superstars have blessed our ears with The Star-Spangled Banner. I can’t wait to break down the top Anthems in our country’s history! (Obviously these are just my opinions)

TOPSHOT - Recording artist Pink sings the US National Anthem before...

TOPSHOT - Recording artist Pink sings the US National Anthem before the start of Super Bowl LII between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots at US Bank Stadium on February 4, 2018 in... Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

History of the Star-Spangled Banner

The Star-Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. During the War of 1812, he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British forces in Baltimore. Key was inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying over the fort after the battle. He wrote the lyrics of what would become the National Anthem.

The Star-Spangled Banner is not just a patriotic song; it is a symbol of the American spirit of perseverance, courage, and freedom. The lyrics of the anthem describe the American flag as a symbol of hope and resilience, even in the face of adversity. The song’s words also remind us of the sacrifices made by American soldiers and citizens throughout history to defend and uphold the principles of democracy and freedom.

The Star-Spangled Banner is played at important national events such as sporting events, political ceremonies, and military ceremonies. It is also played at the beginning of every school day in many American schools, as a way to instill a sense of national pride and respect for the country’s history and traditions.

Whitney Houston sings the National Anthem during the pregame show at...

Whitney Houston sings the National Anthem during the pregame show at Super Bowl XXV while tens of thousands of football fans wave tiny American flags in an incredible outburst of patriotism during... Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

Best National Anthems RANKED!

Here Are The Best National Anthems, ranked by me! I want to preface that anytime someone sings for our country it’s a blessing to our ears. But some performers sang it better than others. And before you get mad at me, just know that there are HUNDREDS of artists I’ve left off this list. But here are some of the worlds biggest stars. (And of course I added a rendition of my own Star-Spangled Banner with the Boston Pops!)

  • 13. Christina Aguilera - 2010 NBA Finals

    The only great thing about this performance was watching the Celtics on the court. This rendition had too many “Christina vocals runs.”

  • 12. Pink - 2017 Superbowl

    Why with the bubble bum Pink!! WHY!!!

  • 11. Luke Bryan

    Not bad, not bad at all! It sounds like Luke Bryan singing the Anthem. He claims he’s still scarred with nightmares thinking about singing it though.

     

  • 10. Martina McBride - 2009 AFC Championship Game

    Beautiful rendition, but not in my top.

  • 9. Mariah Carey - 2001 NASCAR

    It’s Mariah Carey. She’s a diva! But that high note at the end was honestly impressive.

  • 8. Kelly Clarkson - 2018 Indy 500

    Simple, right down the middle. No vocals thrills. Solid Anthem from Idol winner, Kelly Clarkson.

  • 7. Ariana Grande

    I always forget Ariana Grande can sing…like REALLY well.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsdMfWJ7pvA

  • 6. Beyonce - Presidential Inauguration

    Beyonce looked and sounded AMAZING in his performance.

  • 5. Faith Hill - 2000 Superbowl

    It was an iconic moment for Faith Hill. She was flawless! (I just wish we had better video quality back then)

  • 4. Eric Church & Jazmine Sullivan

    This duet between Eric Church & Jazmine Sullivan was shocking! I didn’t know what to expect when country mixed with r&b, but the moment was magical.

  • 3. Jordin Sparks - 2008 Superbowl

    Jordin Sparks did a beautiful job with the Anthem… but the BEST part of the game was watching the New England Patriots on the field (even though they lost).

  • 2. Chris Stapleton - 2023 Superbowl

    There was something SO soulful and simplistic with Chris Stapleton’s version of the National Anthem. My husband and I probably watched this 20x over again after he was done. You did country music proud Chris!

  • 1. Whitney Houston - 1991 Superbowl

    Guys, it’s not even a question. Whitney Houston’s rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner at the 1991 Superbowl IS the Superbowl of voices. Every singer has tried to do as good of a job as Whitney but no one has been able to, which is why she is the GOAT.

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