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]
I'm good with the current version, but for the right song I'd be cool with switching it. Something like Lumpy Beanpole and Dirt.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please rise and remove your caps while Billy Strings honors our country with a rendition of Lumpy Beanpole and Dirt."
Or I could also get with some 30 minute jam by Phish, like the Tweezer they did in Alpharetta Georgia last year. Or anything by Jah Mason or Anthony B.
Interesting thread, and answers
I’m old and don’t care much for change
The one we have works pretty good for me
Free country’s what it’s all about
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~commies [Reply]
Originally Posted by Zebedee DuBois:
I've seen America the Beautiful mentioned, but i've missed God Bless America. Those 2 plus Star Spangled are the legacy anthems.
I would rate them by singability, 1) God Bless, 2) America the Beautiful, 3) Star Spangled.
I don't know if it's too flag oriented as opposed to nation oriented, but It's a Grand Old Flag could be in the mix as a classic. [Reply]