Mods, feel free to move this to DC if necessary, but I view this as a patriotic topic and not a political topic.
With the 4th of July coming up, it's a good time to reflect upon our national anthem.
Our national anthem works. It glorifies a key moment that ensured American freedom from British rule. Everyone knows the lyrics, almost half of the population can passably sing it, and of course the last line works well to claim ownership of Arrowhead Stadium.
However, there have been some criticisms as well. Apparently the third verse has a slavery reference, even though no one ever sings the third verse. The high and low notes are hard for some people. And it's a war story, which apparently rankles some people.
The Star Spangled Banner has a long tradition in America, but it's not too long to consider a change. It became the national anthem in 1931, so there are still people alive from the pre-spangling days.
So should our anthem change, and if so, what new song would you suggest? Regardless of whether you want a change, give me your suggestions of the best song to replace it if such a thing happened. I'll then put up a poll. [Reply]
Originally Posted by Zebedee DuBois:
No, I'm an American. The song doesn't have any lyrics about country - its just fun.
Self reflection: I am apparently missing the gene that places a lot of value on ritualistic and symbolistic trappings. I understand that a lot of people do...and I dont fault or belittle that sentiment.
just saying good luck getting americans to adopt a song by an english band as a national anthem. Why not just go with Boys Don't Cry [Reply]
I didn’t realize that the the full national anthem is actually 4 times as long as the one we are used to hearing until Rain Man mentioned the third verse. Is the full national anthem played elsewhere? [Reply]
Originally Posted by Spott:
I didn’t realize that the the full national anthem is actually 4 times as long as the one we are used to hearing until Rain Man mentioned the third verse. Is the full national anthem played elsewhere?
You've never heard..... ah, never mind I'll just get banned for bringing politics into a fun thread. [Reply]
Anthem is fine, the standing and singing of god bless america at baseball games is stupid though. You only have to stand and remove your hat for the National anthem. [Reply]
Originally Posted by bringbackmarty:
Anthem is fine, the standing and singing of god bless america at baseball games is stupid though. You only have to stand and remove your hat for the National anthem.
I think this is the right take. I can support this.
Or maybe I just have a soft spot for folks with dog pictures. [Reply]
So far in the poll, people seem to be pretty satisfied with the current anthem.
But wouldn't you prefer to see something more rockin' for our anthem? I want other countries to look at us and say, "Wow, they're rich, technologically advanced, and they're having fun doing it."
Maybe we go with something like "Walking on Sunshine". [Reply]
Originally Posted by bringbackmarty:
Anthem is fine, the standing and singing of god bless america at baseball games is stupid though. You only have to stand and remove your hat for the National anthem.