It’s an American tradition to stand, hand over heart, while someone sings the national anthem before sporting events to remind America of the common goals we share.
While a good rendition will make you smile or nod your head, a great rendition can give you chills and bring tears to your eyes. Here are five great renditions of the national anthem and a bonus performance to boot.
Whitney Houston
Icon Whitney Houston was 27-years-old when she sang the national anthem at Super Bowl XXV in Florida in 1991. Her rendition united a country that had just embarked on Operation Desert Storm. (RELATED: Trump Plans Rally On Same Day As Mueller Testimony)
Carrie Underwood
Country singer Carrie Underwood performed the national anthem a cappella before the NFC Championship game between the Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington, in 2006. She won “American Idol” in 2005.
Faith Hill
Country singer Faith Hill knocked it out of the park with her version of the anthem at Super Bowl XXXIV between the St. Louis Rams and Tennessee Titans in 2000.
Jackie Evancho
“America’s Got Talent” finalist Jackie Evancho was just 16 when she performed the anthem at President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2017.
Luke Bryan
Country crooner Luke Bryan put his own twist on the anthem during Super Bowl LI between the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons in 2017.
BONUS: Maya Rudolph’s SNL Skit
These five performances were pure artistry, but Saturday Night Live’s Maya Rudolph shows what NOT to do when you perform the anthem in this 2013 sketch.
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