I have long been perplexed by the singing of national anthems at North American sporting events. When did this start and why does it happen when the people on the field or rink are playing a game? It doesn't make sense and even less so when the crowd responds with boos or jeers as has happened since the tensions between Canada and the United States began to increase. My inclination is to consider when the start of the game is to officially begin then tune in a few minutes later.
This was a mistake Friday night as the Toronto Blue Jays met the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first game of the world series. The anthems were sung by a gospel choir called Voices of Fire and now that I've seen the moving clip of their performance I figure it must have been a religious experience for the 45,000 in-stadium fans who sang along as well as folk watching from home.
Voices of Fire, formed by Grammy winning musician Pharell, was augmented by orchestral instruments and Canadian singers and a Maple Leaf flag was formed on the field. Voices of Fire performed at the Vatican in September and now in Toronto. They were magnificent on Friday night. Hey, who doesn't love a good gospel choir? Do I hear an Amen?
Some pundits figured the Jays didn't have a prayer against the might Dodgers yet they vanquished their opponents. Divine intervention? After last night we could use a little more. Happiness would be a third Blue Jays World Series win.
Voices of Fire at the Vatican in September
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Totally agree about the anthems before games. I will mute them or tune in shortly after the anthem. Let's just start the game! Go Jays Go!
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand - I love the anthems at big sporting events! That choir on Friday night at the play-off was moving and mighty. Some other favourites that come to mind are Nicky Yanofsky's opening of the 2012 Olympics in Vancouver with her version of " O Canada" performed like a love song and Babyface's version of "America the Beautiful" at the 2023 SuperBowl beginning as a quiet acoustic guitar and then growing into a full chorus.KB
ReplyDeleteI laughed out loud at the contrast between your two comments, but it was appreciative chortling! I'm resolute in my dislike of trotting the anthems onto the field like the opening lineup for the match. That said, you brought your A-game Kathy, complete with examples. Light a fire under those Steelers, Roger.
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