Freedom and Respect

So the big hubub in Denver this week was singer Rene Marie's performance before mayor John Hickenlooper's annual state of the city speech. She was invited to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" but instead sang "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" to the tune of our national anthem. I was not familiar with the song, but it is apparently "the black national anthem." She had apparently decided beforehand to do this but didn't tell anyone. I don't know that she has really given a sufficient explanation for her action, but has taken the "no apologies" stance. She was quoted in the Rocky Mountain News as saying that she didn't let Denver city officials in on her little plan because it wasn't necessary "for an artist to ask permission to express themselves artistically."

Unless, of course, you were asked to perform a specific song by an elected official.

We're celebrating America today because of our freedoms. We can worship how we choose, criticize the government, and yes, even express ourselves artistically. If Rene Marie wants to sing the black national anthem instead of the regular one because that's how she feels about America, it's okay by me. And I guess if she wants to upstage a city meeting by not doing what she was asked, that's okay too. It's America.

But there's a fine line between protesting and showing disrespect for others. Certainly those in attendance wanted to hear "The Star-Spangled Banner" because it symbolizes their gratitude for this country. And the mayor spent hours preparing a speech that ultimately no one wound up caring about. She had to know people were going to be upset about her "artistic choice."

That's probably my biggest gripe about America today. People have so much contempt for one another if they don't agree politically. I think they should just say, "I disagree, but I respect your opinion." We are all on the same side, after all. So that's my Independence Day Wish.

In conclusion, was Rene Marie wrong in singing an alternative national anthem? No. But was she being incredibly selfish? Yes.


Whitney didn't pull the switcheroo back in '91. Was this the greatest all-time performance of our national anthem? Are there even any other candidates?