[TonyB06]

I guess I've got a contrarian view when it comes to professionals singing the anthem. I just watched Christina Aguillera's (sp) performance last night (DVR'd the game) and, flubbed words notwithstanding, think she did well. He voice is soulful and compelling. Mix in a teleprompter next time, and she's good to go in my book.

To the bigger issue, however, if the country is an alleged "melting pot," then isn't it everybody's anthem? I think the performance inflections of professionals from different cultural backgrounds, give meaning to the supposed diversity of the country. My favorite renditions were probably Whitney Houston's Super Bowl performance in 1991, Marvin Gaye's rendition at the '82 NBA all star game, and Jennifer Hudson (don't remember the event).

Converserly, while I may not care for how a country-western star might sing it, I can at least appreciate that it's a style that may bring enjoyment for others; diversity writ large, in a way.

I just never buy the argument that there is supposedly only one preferred way to sing the song. Because if there is, who gets to decide whose way that is?