On 3 March 2026, the United States will commemorate the 95th anniversary of “The Star-Spangled Banner” being officially designated as the national anthem. Throughout its history, the anthem has witnessed a multitude of interpretations, some of which have resonated profoundly with audiences, while others have drawn criticism and ridicule.
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Among the most celebrated renditions is that of Whitney Houston, whose performance during the 1991 Super Bowl remains iconic. Described by many as the quintessential pop version of the anthem, Houston’s powerful delivery not only captivated the audience but also led to the release of the rendition as a charity single to support military personnel and their families during the Gulf War. The song achieved remarkable success on the Billboard charts, peaking in the top 10 following its re-release after the 9/11 attacks.
In stark contrast is the rendition by Fergie during the 2020 NBA All-Star Game, which became infamous for its awkward delivery. The former Black Eyed Peas member’s interpretation was met with widespread criticism online, and many found her performance difficult to watch. In response to the backlash, Fergie expressed her intent to take artistic risks but acknowledged that her rendition did not convey the emotion she had hoped for.
Another standout performance came from Lady Gaga during Super Bowl 50. Clad in a dazzling red pantsuit, the pop superstar delivered a stirring rendition that showcased her vocal strength and left viewers impressed. Gaga’s performance is often celebrated as a highlight of the event, demonstrating her ability to bring a sense of gravitas to the anthem.
Singer-songwriter Ingrid Andress offered a less successful interpretation at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby, where her shaky performance spiralled into chaos as she struggled with the song’s challenging high notes. The backlash was swift, and Andress later revealed she had been intoxicated during the performance. After taking time for personal recovery, she surprised fans by attempting the anthem again several months later.
Notably, Jimi Hendrix, who famously performed at Woodstock in 1969, provided an unforgettable rendition through his skillful guitar work. Although he did not sing the anthem, his electric interpretation through the guitar has become legendary, securing his place as a pioneering artist who left an indelible mark on music history.
Conversely, comedian Roseanne Barr’s 1990 performance at a San Diego Padres game was met with widespread disapproval. Her tone-deaf rendition, which included a bizarre display of behaviour, ultimately resulted in a chorus of boos. This performance exemplified how a national symbol can be both disrespected and ridiculed in public spaces.
Other interpretations have evoked mixed reactions, including Chris Stapleton’s soulful rendition at the 2023 Super Bowl, which received praise for its emotional weight. His ability to convey passion through his gravelly voice solidified his interpretation as a memorable part of the national anthem’s history.
In a somewhat baffling turn, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler has garnered notoriety for two notably poor renditions of the anthem. His first attempt at the 2001 Indy 500 resulted in a blunder where he altered the lyrics to fit the event. In 2012, he attempted it again at the AFC Championship game, though the performance elicited more cringes than cheers.
Mariah Carey also made a mark with her superb rendition during the 2002 Super Bowl, showcasing her remarkable vocal range with an effortlessly executed whistle note. Conversely, Christina Aguilera’s performance at the Super Bowl in 2011, while technically precise, ended in a mishap as she forgot a key line of lyrics.
As the 95th anniversary of “The Star-Spangled Banner” approaches, it becomes evident that the anthem not only reigns as a symbol of national pride but also serves as a stage for artistic expression, inviting both stunning interpretations and unforgettable missteps. The diverse array of performances reflects the complex relationship between art, patriotism, and public perception, ensuring that this anthem remains a focal point in American culture.