When done right, the pre-sporting event national anthem can reawaken everyone’s patriotic side. When done wrong, as some are saying of Jamie Foxx’s version at last weekend’s Mayweather-Pacquiao fight, all sorts of criticism can be expected. With so many stellar performances of the national anthem to focus on, who needs to blast Foxx any further? Take a look at how our favorite singers raised the bar on this national treasure.
Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s version of the national anthem at Super Bowl 25 is by far one of the most memorable.
Jennifer Hudson
By the time J-Hud sang “Oh say, can you see?” at Super Bowl 43, we knew she was going to take it all the way home.
Mariah Carey
Mariah added her sweet vocal stylings to the national anthem during her performance at Super Bowl 36.
Marvin Gaye
Before Jamie, there was Marvin! In perhaps the smoothest version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Marvin Gaye added lots of soul to the national anthem before a 1979 boxing match.
Beyonce
Beyonce sang her heart out during at Super Bowl 38, which was held in her hometown of Houston.
Jordin Sparks
Fresh from her American Idol win, Jordin Sparks had a lot to prove when she sang the national anthem at Super Bowl 42. Luckily she passed the test with flying colors.
Destiny’s Child
Split into a three-part vocal harmony, “The Star-Spangled Banner” never sounded so sweet at the 2006 NBA All-Star Game.
Monica
You can always count on Monica to add some personal flair into the mix, which she did during the 2010 NBA Finals.
Aretha Franklin
The Queen of Soul took us to church with her version of the national anthem at the game three of the 2011 ALCS.
Patti Labelle
Add in a little bit of soul and a whole lot of singing and you’ve got Miss Patti’s version of the national anthem during the 2009 World Series.
Fantasia
The ever soulful Fantasia was her best on this version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at a 2008 baseball game.
Brandy
Brandy brought her own unique flavor to the national anthem at the 2003 Pro Bowl.