Outside of being the most important football game of the year, the Super Bowl gives us the chance to gather with friends and family and also makes for a good excuse why we’re still a little intoxicated the next day.
One of the most exciting parts for many of us, however, is the performing of the National Anthem. It’s a chance for all of us to get patriotic and be awed by some of the best voices in music (most of the time). Here are seven of the best National Anthem performances in the history of the Super Bowl.
7. Jordin Sparks — Super Bowl XLII
Fresh off of her American Idol win, Jordin Sparks showcased amazing pipes while keeping it simple and classy
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6. Luke Bryan — Super Bowl LI
The lone male soloist on this list, Luke Bryan came out and represented country music — and he did it well.
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5. Lady Gaga — Super Bowl L
This was a surprisingly great rendition of our country’s anthem. Save for some weird pronunciation (Lady Gaga is from Jersey but found an accent on the way up to the microphone, apparently), Gaga amazed the crowd.
(Anything Slays | YouTube)
4. Vanessa L. Williams — Super Bowl XXX
Former Miss America, Vanessa L. Williams, showed her versatility with this impressive performance.
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3. Mariah Carey — Super Bowl XXXVI
The highest-selling female recording artist ever didn’t disappoint with this performance.
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2. Combined Armed Forces — Super Bowl XXXIX
One of only two performances in Super Bowl history by anyone directly enlisted, commissioned, or committed to service. This combined chorale demonstration showed what military focus and vocal talent add up to: perfect pitch!
(Lunatic Angelic | Youtube)
1. Whitney Houston — Super Bowl XXV
They didn’t call her “The Voice” for nothing.
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